Intersubjectivity and Interaction in the Analytic Relationship: a Mainstream View

Abstract

The authors conceptualize intersubjectivity as a meta-theory that reflects the inherent nature of human relatedness and is conceptually independent of any particular theory of mind or school of psychoanalysis. Their view of intersubjectivity joins the emotional life of the analyst to that of the patient and places the analytic relationship at the center of the analytic process. They contrast intersubjectivity with traditional classical conflict theory so as to clarify the relevance of intersubjectivity for psychoanalytic clinical theory and therapeutic practice. In so doing, they hope to direct analysts more firmly toward the study of the unconscious dyadic contributions to the affective, enactive, and interactive dimensions of the analytic situation and their impact upon the patient’s actions within and experience of the analytic relationship. To illustrate their thesis, two hours from an analysis are presented in detail.