The vicissitudes of triangulation in the lives of twins: a Kleinian perspective on an infant observation

Abstract

This article is an account of an infant observation of non-identical twins whose early development was characterised by the shadow of the postnatal depression their mother suffered after the birth of her first child. Using extracts from the observations, the vicissitudes of triangulations are explored drawing on a Kleinian theoretical perspective. The author considers the twin’s individual internal responses to the changes in their external environment and in particular in relation to the experience of weaning and the developing presence of the absent object. The task and the role of the observer are briefly explored.

Keywords:

• observation
• twins
• triangulation
• postnatal depression
• absent object
• Klein

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Notes on contributor

Roberto Marongiu is a Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist working in the NHS in West Essex, UK. He trained at the Tavisock Clinic and has worked in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services for the past 25 years. He has developed expertise in clinical work with adolescents, eating disorders, looked after children and post-adoption. He has also worked as an organisational consultant for Greenfield Therapeutic Community, part of Childhood First and other institutions for many years. He has extensive experience as a teacher and supervisor in different settings. He also has a private practice with children and adolescents.