Course info

Introduction

This module builds on PA401 Psychoanalytic Theory: Freud and Object Relations. We examine some of the developments in object relations theory with a special focus on the figure of the child. We consider some of the debates surrounding the development of psychoanalysis of children through the work of Melanie Klein, D. W. Winnicott, Anna Freud, amongst others. We pay attention to the importance of play and practices of observation to understand how and why the figure of the child has been central to the development of psychoanalytic thought.

Aims

 To introduce students to some of the basic questions and debates prompted by psychoanalytic work with children

• To cover some of the history of the emergence of traditions of child psychoanalysis from Sigmund Freud to more contemporary work
• To give a more detailed exploration of Melanie Klein’s ideas and D. W. Winnicott’s in relation to their work with children
• To promote an understanding of what differentiates psychoanalytic work with children, practically, ethically, theoretically from work with adults

 

Learning Outcomes

 

• Students will show some awareness of the debates and problems which have emerged in relation to psychoanalytic work with children.

 

• Students will be able to demonstrate some historical knowledge of the emergence of work with children within the psychoanalytic tradition.

 

• Students will be able to show some insight into the particular techniques and theories applied to child work by Klein, Winnicott and others.

 

• Students will have a grasp of how child psychoanalysis forms a distinct body of work from adult psychoanalysis, and will be able to compare the way in which object relations theory is applied in both realms.