Fairbairnian Theory: A Comprehensive Review
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to review Fairbairnian Theory within the field of psychology. Fairbairnian Theory is a psychoanalytic theory of object-relations that was developed by Melanie Klein and Wilfred Bion in the mid-20th century. It views the development of the self as a dialectical process that includes the integration of both internal and external objects. This paper will discuss the various components of Fairbairnian Theory, including its concept of internal objects, the process of splitting, and the roles of the depressive and paranoid-schizoid positions. Additionally, the paper will discuss the implications of Fairbairnian Theory for psychoanalytic therapy.
Introduction
Fairbairnian Theory is a psychoanalytic theory of object-relations that was developed by Melanie Klein and Wilfred Bion in the mid-20th century. It is a theory of the development of the self that views it as a dialectical process that involves both internal and external objects. This paper will review the various components of the Fairbairnian Theory, its implications for psychoanalytic therapy, and its role in the field of psychology.
Components of Fairbairnian Theory
Fairbairnian Theory views the development of the self as a dialectical process that involves both internal and external objects (Bion, 1959). Internal objects are mental representations of people or objects that are created in the mind and are based on experiences with external objects. These internal objects can be positive or negative and can be used to help shape the individual’s behavior.
The process of splitting is also an important concept in Fairbairnian Theory. This is the process of dividing the self into two parts: the good and the bad. The good part of the self is seen as being connected to the external objects, while the bad part is seen as being disconnected from them. The idea is that the individual will use the good part of the self to form relationships with the external objects, while the bad part will be used to reject them.
Fairbairnian Theory also suggests the existence of two positions that the individual can take: the depressive position and the paranoid-schizoid position (Klein, 1932). In the depressive position, the individual is able to recognize the good and bad parts of the self and is able to integrate them into a cohesive self. In the paranoid-schizoid position, the individual is unable to do this and instead is stuck in a state of splitting and rejection.
Implications for Psychoanalytic Therapy
Fairbairnian Theory has implications for psychoanalytic therapy. It suggests that the therapist should focus on helping the client to integrate the good and bad parts of the self. This can be done by exploring the client’s internal objects, helping them to understand how they relate to external objects, and helping them to develop healthier relationships. Additionally, the therapist should help the client to move from the paranoid-schizoid position to the depressive position, in order to increase their capacity for forming relationships.
Conclusion
Fairbairnian Theory is a psychoanalytic theory of object-relations that was developed by Melanie Klein and Wilfred Bion in the mid-20th century. It views the development of the self as a dialectical process that includes the integration of both internal and external objects. The various components of Fairbairnian Theory, including its concept of internal objects, the process of splitting, and the roles of the depressive and paranoid-schizoid positions have been discussed. Additionally, the implications of Fairbairnian Theory for psychoanalytic therapy have been discussed.
References
Bion, W. R. (1959). Experiences in groups. London: Tavistock Publications.
Klein, M. (1932). The psycho-analysis of children. London: Hogarth Press.