Presenter: |
Nancy R. Hicks, PsyD, MDiv |
Chair: |
Arthur A. Gray, PhD |
Discussant: |
Philip A. Ringstrom, PhD, PsyD |
Self Psychology Page | 20th Conference Program
This paper explores the nature and activity of unconscious fantasy as it is expressed in and influences the relationship of a heterosexual couple. Several aspects of unconscious fantasy are considered:
First, how unconscious fantasy arises out of the context of individual development and experience with others, thereby expressing assumptions regarding relationships, as well as longings for different, reparative associations between self and others.
Second, how unconscious fantasy is an important constituent of individual identity, organizing and structuring the view of self, world and others.
Third, how unconscious fantasy impacts upon choice of partner and interpersonal interactions, concomitantly shaping the character of a relationship.
The notion of shared unconscious fantasy is also considered, especially as it relates to gender. Central is the idea that the development of a gendered self tends to result in a truncation of self experience and a sense of incompleteness, the resolution of which is sought in the context of a relationship. The fantasied solution to the problem of the vertical split between the sexes is the reclaiming of one's own unfulfilled potentials through the connection to the other person.
Finally, a clinical example is used to illustrate these ideas. An analysis is made of the etiology and escalation of a process of problematic and debilitating interactions within a heterosexual couples' relationship, with special attention given to the effects of their unconscious fantasies.