Erich Fromm’s concept of reactive violence

Abstract

This paper explores the current relevance of Fromm’s concept of reactive violence for understanding particular patients and for generating hypotheses about the world we live in. In his discussion of reactive violence, Fromm gives us a nuanced approach to forms of aggression that can be employed in the service of life. According to Fromm, the aim of reactive violence is preservation, not destruction. It is rooted in fear and, he believes, is the most frequent form of violence. This paper traces the evolution of Fromm’s concept of reactive violence, and considers how it might apply to today’s social and political challenges.

Key words:

• violence
• reactive violence
• Fromm
• Erich Fromm
• hatred
• destructiveness

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Sandra Buechler

Sandra Buechler, PhD, is a training and supervising analyst and graduate at the William Alanson White Institute. Her book Clinical values: Emotions that guide psychoanalytic treatment (Analytic Press, 2004) examines hope, courage, and other values. Making a difference in patients’ lives: Emotional experience in the therapeutic setting (Routledge, 2008) discusses therapeutic process. Still practicing: The heartaches and joys of a clinical career (Routledge, 2012) examines clinicians’ shame, sorrow, and resilience. Understanding and treating patients in clinical psychoanalysis: Lessons from literature (Routledge, 2015) uses short stories to illuminate coping styles.