Emergence and Resolution of Ambivalence in Expectant Mothers
Abstract
This paper discusses the unique aberrational fantasies of pregnant women with a previous history of psychiatric disturbance. A 22-year-old primigravida with a prior history of schizoaffective disorder disclosed several dreams to her therapist that revealed unconscious ambivalent and destructive impulses toward her unborn infant. Appropriate psychotherapeutic techniques for treating such disclosures are offered. Specific interventions for exploring and predicting how such new mothers with previous psychiatric histories will interact with their infants after birth are suggested. Possibilities for prevention of abusive behavior are implied.
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.).
