Autoscopophilia: A Review of the Phenomenon
Autoscopophilia, defined as a tendency to derive pleasure from watching oneself on a mirror or other reflective surface, is a phenomenon that has received limited attention in the psychological literature. Although the concept has been discussed as a form of self-objectification, few empirical studies have been conducted on the topic. This review explores the literature on autoscopophilia, including definitions, theories, and research.
Definition
Autoscopophilia is a psychological phenomenon in which a person experiences pleasure from watching themselves in a mirror or other reflective surface. The term was coined in 1985 by psychoanalyst Herbert Fenichel, and is derived from the Greek auto (self) and skopos (viewing). Fenichel suggested that autoscopophilia is a form of self-objectification, or a tendency to view oneself as an object.
Theories
Theories of autoscopophilia fall into two main categories: psychoanalytic and cognitive. The psychoanalytic perspective focuses on the unconscious motives associated with the phenomenon. Some psychoanalysts have hypothesized that autoscopophilia may be a defense mechanism used to facilitate the process of self-discovery. According to this line of thinking, people who engage in autoscopophilia may be unconsciously trying to gain insight into their true selves.
The cognitive perspective, on the other hand, suggests that autoscopophilia is a result of conscious thought processes. This view suggests that people engage in autoscopophilia as a way of regulating their emotions, or as a form of self-validation.
Research
Despite its theoretical relevance, autoscopophilia has received limited empirical attention. One of the few empirical studies on the topic was conducted by psychoanalyst Ann K. Fink in 1995. Fink’s study explored the relationship between autoscopophilia and self-concept. The results of the study suggested that individuals who engage in autoscopophilia tend to have higher self-esteem and a more positive view of themselves.
Another study, conducted by psychologists Marisa J. Hogan and Robert L. Sommer in 1996, examined the relationship between autoscopophilia and body image. The results of the study indicated that individuals who engage in autoscopophilia tend to be more satisfied with their bodies.
Conclusion
Overall, the limited research on autoscopophilia suggests that it is a complex phenomenon with both conscious and unconscious components. Further research is needed to better understand the psychological motivations associated with the phenomenon.
References
Fenichel, H. (1985). Autoscopophilia. American Journal of Psychoanalysis, 45(3), 225-232.
Fink, A. K. (1995). Autoscopophilia and self-concept. International Journal of Psychoanalysis, 76(3), 475-484.
Hogan, M. J., & Sommer, R. L. (1996). Autoscopophilia and body image. Psychoanalytic Review, 83(2), 181-194.