And who thinks on the baby? Thoughts on the method of infant observation

Abstract

After the method of infant observation, as developed by Esther Bick, and its significance for psychoanalytic training have been outlined, the method is critically assessed. The suggestion is then made that infant observation should be supplemented by video-analytic infant observation. Finally, thoughts on modifications of the process of infant observation are presented.

Key words:

• Baby observation
• infant observation
• video analysis
• ethical problems: participatory observation

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Christiane Ludwig-Körner

Author

Christiane Ludwig-Körner, Prof. Dr. habil., is a psychologist, training analyst, and supervisor of the International Psychoanalytic Association, Deutsche Psychoanalytische Gesellschaft, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Psychoanalyse, Psychotherapie, Psychosomatik und Tiefenpsychologie, and a professor at the International Psychoanalytic University of Berlin. She constructed and leads the training program Parent Infant Psychotherapy Eltern-Säugling-Kleinkind-Psychotherapie (ESKP) in Germany, and is head of the Parent Infant Working Group of the IPA. Her work and research focuses are primary prevention, parent–infant therapy, psychotherapy approaches, and biographical research into female psychoanalysts.