The Psychopathogenic Power of Secrecy: Child Development and Family Dynamics After Heterologous Insemination

Abstract

This study presents the outcome of a 7-year psychotherapy of a girl who was born after donor insemination (Dl) and who became ill with a compulsive disorder at the age of 8 years. Our demonstration supplements the present existing statistical data about families into which children have been born with the aid of DI. Aspects of child development, communication within the family, and family dynamics related to this specific constellation will be pointed out. This case study shows important aspects of the individual and the development of the family with regard to DI-constellations. Our paper emphasizes, in contrast to constellations of foster care or adoption, the impact on the parents' conscious knowledge and the child's unconscious knowledge of an absent-as well as less-known - family member (here: the invisible father) on the child's emotional development, health and competence of tying bonds. We also examine the relationship between the parents and their relationship with their Dl child. Implications for individual therapy and therapeutic management of the family will be discussed, covering development of bonding and identity of the Dl child, the father's role, dynamics of the couple, and the incognito of the ‘invisible father’.

Key Words:

• donor insemination
• child development
• family dynamics