Discussion of Dr. Judy Pickles's Paper: The Perspective of Nonlinear Open Systems Theory

Abstract

Nonlinear dynamic systems theory originally began as an attempt to understand interactions in both living and nonliving systems such as ecosystems and cloud formations. Because it is a field and systems theory, dynamic systems concepts offer a rich source of patented applications to the psychoanalytic situation. This article first briefly reviews some basic dynamic systems principles. The clinical material presented by Dr. Pickles is then discussed with an effort to apply dynamic systems concepts. In particular, the notions of introducing novelty and the need for measured perturbation as part of the process of analytic change are emphasized.