Transactional Analysis and Psychoanalysis: Overcoming the Narcissism of Small Differences in the Shadow of Eric Berne

Abstract

This article addresses how narcissistic identification with specific theoretical models interferes with further learning, development, and maturation within both individual and group contexts. Drawing on Freud’s initial reflections on the functions and consequences of narcissistic identifications and defenses within the life of groups, the author describes the impact of the narcissistically motivated inflation of differences in the history and evolution of transactional analysis. While acknowledging Eric Berne’s efforts to create an open and inclusive model of psychotherapy, the transgenerational consequences of his ambivalent and conflicted relationship with psychoanalysis are portrayed. The narcissistic encapsulation of transactional analysis as a unique methodology, subsequent to Berne’s death, is challenged.

Keywords:

• Transactional analysis
• psychoanalysis
• Eric Berne
• narcissism
• professional training
• functions of theory
• Judith Chused
• professional development

Disclosure statement

The author declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

William F. Cornell

William F. Cornell, MA, is a Teaching and Supervising Transactional Analyst (psychotherapy) who maintains an independent private practice of therapy, consultation, and training in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as well as leading frequent training groups in Europe. He is the consulting editor of the Transactional Analysis Journal and the author of numerous articles and books. He can be reached at 145 44^th St., Pittsburgh, PA 15201-3038, United States; email: [email protected].