Citation

Newman KM. Psychoanal. Q. 1996; 65(4): 787-807.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1996, Wiley-Blackwell)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

8933617

Abstract

Winnicott's theories of development, while appearing metaphorical and impressionistic, actually offer a remarkably consistent explanation for pathological character formation as an outcome of environmental failure. He suggested that faulty mothering can lead to a chain of disturbing internal psychic events that necessitate a reorganization in the child. A major pathological resolution is the formation of a false self and false self bonds. Winnicott's recommendations for treating the crippling effects of the early traumata proceed logically from his concepts of developmental pathology. The film, Ordinary People, offers a way of understanding the tragedy and then the hope stemming from the application of Winnicott's concepts.

Language: en