Date / Heure
Date(s) - 05/10/2023 - 07/10/2023
0 h 00
Emplacement
Maison de la FEP
Catégories
Presence and Absence
Psychoanalytic theories of the emergence of the mind are based on a dichotomy of presence and absence of the (m)other. The ability to represent the object as a whole object and the capacity for experiencing oneself as a separate individual, with ambivalent properties, is required for a person to be able to be alive and in touch – with himself and potentially with the other – in the presence of the other.
Psychoanalysis also underlines the importance of frustration (the absence of pleasure and gratification) for the development of thought. We know that unbearable absence and intolerable frustration affect the growing mind in potentially catastrophic ways.
A good enough-balance between the presence of the benevolent, interested object and absence of this gratifying object (optimal frustration) – will over time foster the potential capacity to both be present with another and handle the other’s absence – while keeping the other in mind.
How are these concepts discussed in different psychoanalytical perspectives? How are the themes of presence and absence elaborated in the clinical setting? And how does the digital era affect our understanding and experiences of presence and absence?
On behalf of the European Psychoanalytical Federation
Martin Teising, Mercedes Puchol, Charlotta Björklind
European Psychoanalytic Conference for University Students – EPCUS provides the unique opportunity to approach the psychoanalytic way of thinking by listening to prominent psychoanalysts, by meeting colleagues and forming networks, thus gaining perspectives into various aspects of personal development in a distinct atmosphere of learning, exchange and enthusiasm.