On the relations between autism and psychoanalytic thought and practice

Abstract

I consider the nature of the psychoanalytic enterprise, both methodologically and conceptually, and the various ways in which it may bear upon, and be affected by considerations from, individuals with autism. I conclude that in certain respects, phenomena from autism may serve to highlight the value of psychoanalytic concepts, precisely because those concepts are not applicable to children with autism in quite the way that they are to other human beings. Psychoanalytic writers and practitioners need to be especially circumspect when extending their customary ways of thinking and working to individuals with autism. The potential value and limitations of dynamic psychotherapy of some kind with affected children and adults, as well as with their families, are little understood.

Keywords:

• autism
• intersubjectivity
• psychoanalysis