Pseudomaturity in the Developmental Line of Object Relations
Abstract
In four clinical cases, the particular form of the child’s pseudomaturity recollects the image of the lost parental figure, thereby enhancing attachment to the remaining parent. Forces that sustain this defense mechanism include actual family instability as well as separation anxiety aroused by the child’s anger and resentment. Reaction formation against childlike characteristics helps to drive the memory of loss from awareness, and protects against the fear of a fresh abandonment. At the same time, projective identification interferes with the satisfaction of dependency in new relationships.
Access content
To read the fulltext, please use one of the options below to sign in or purchase access.- Personal login
- Institutional Login
- Sign in via OpenAthens
- Register for access
-
Please login/register if you wish to pair your device and check access availability.
Not a subscriber?
PsychiatryOnline subscription options offer access to the DSM-5 library, books, journals, CME, and patient resources. This all-in-one virtual library provides psychiatrists and mental health professionals with key resources for diagnosis, treatment, research, and professional development.
Need more help? PsychiatryOnline Customer Service may be reached by emailing [email protected] or by calling 800-368-5777 (in the U.S.) or 703-907-7322 (outside the U.S.).