Rorschach-testning af graensepsykotiske unge

Abstract

The Rorschach test has long been recognized as a valuable tool in the diagnosis of borderline states.

The test was created mainly on an empirical basis, but was later set in relation to ego-psychological theory. A “classical” test pattern for adult borderline patients is described.

In work with adolescents this model has been found unsatisfactory, letting too many borderline adolescents pass undiagnosed.

It is felt fruitful to relate the Rorschach test to object relations theories. The emphasis is then no longer placed only on the formal traits of the test, but also specific aspects of the content are included. Particularly the human content is seen as reflecting qualities of the patient's object relationships. The incomplete differentiation between self and object may manifest itself in the test both as wishes for and as fear of fusion with the object. There is a tendency to see other persons as fragments, instead of whole persons. Human beings are often interpreted as aggressive or distorted or they are made distant, supernatural or lifeless. Pregenital, particularly oral, and archaic aggressive impulses are clearly present. Inner organs, often combined with aggressive and destructive fantasies, are frequently seen. An insecure sexual identity is also often reflected. Defense mechanisms are primitive such as projection, denial and splitting.

Examples of the various manifestations are given in the article.

A difficulty in the combination of psychological testing and psychiatric practice has been the use of different theories. With the use of the object relations theories for both testing and clinical practice, a common frame of reference and a common language seem possible. □ Rorschach testing, Adolescence, Borderline states