Note: Links for optional readings are not included in the course bibliographies.
Development: Oedipal & Latencey
Theodore Fallon, MD & Frances G. Martin, PhD
The Oedipal phase: many developmental issues emerge strongly during these years. Oedipal fantasy is the result of and allows for the modulation of sexuality and aggression; the ability to distinguish reality from fantasy; psychic equivalence and pretend mode; the capacity for mentalization and self-reflection; and the capacity for guilt and conscience; and enhanced gender identity and gender consolidation.
This course will explore the many developmental changes and achievements that take place between the ages of approximately six to eleven. This has historically been referred to as the period of Latency, a "quiet" period characterized by a "biological lessening of drive activities" (Freud, 1926) during which ego defenses are reorganized and behavior is static. Through our readings, observations and discussions, we will see in fact that this phase of development is indeed a rich, complex, fascinating and delightful period during which many physical, emotional and cognitive changes take place. Childhood experience at home, at school and with peers further solidifies those qualities which become fundamental elements of a child's personality. We will discuss characteristics of latency, development of defense mechanisms, shifts in object relations including development of friendships, hero worship, and shifts in family dynamics, play, learning, and moral development through our readings, as well as through observations in literature, film and life.
Approaches to Narcissism
Robert Kravis, PsyD
This course examines the development of psychoanalytic conceptions of narcissism starting with Freud's 1914 paper. The ideas in this paper both contributed to an elucidation of the concept of narcissism and to the confusion surrounding it. Later papers exploring the elaboration of Freud's ideas in attempts to clarify the uses and meanings of this concept are also critically read and examined. The course also provides an introduction to the theoretical innovations of Self Psychology and the work of Heinz Kohut and his colleagues.
Master Series
TBA
Course description to be published at a later date.
Trauma: Theory & Technique
Ira Brenner, MD
This course provides an overview of contemporary analytic thinking about trauma, linking it with classical views and current psychiatric thinking. There is particular emphasis on such topics as developmental considerations, repetition, reconstruction, trauma memory, inter-generational transmission, transference, countertransference, technique, and dissociative psychopathology.
Adult Continuous Case Conference
TBA
The central aim and focus of this continuous case is to learn from the case material, learn from each other and to share our analytic ideas, approaches and views. The case will be a springboard for discussion. The overarching theme will be looking at resistance from many different facets. It should be noted that this theme is loosely devised and we have the flexibility to move in the direction that is inspired by the case material and the group. In order to help facilitate these discussions we have organized a reading list. While we will touch upon the reading we do not want the reading to be a “resistance” to get into the case material. So the reading is there as a guide with the hopes that it exposes you to some material that can help further facilitate thinking, reflecting on the clinical material and our discussions.
* No advanced readings for this course.
Interpreting Dreams
Peter Badgio, PhD
Course description to be published at a later date.
Enactments
Lawrence Blum, MD
This class will consider the place of enactments in psychoanalytic theory and practice. It will review the origins of the concept and its place in the development and history of analytic technique. Among the questions candidates will consider are: To what extent are enactments inevitable? Do enactments tend to promote or hinder analytic process? Are they best thought of as part and parcel of the analytic process or as occasional events? What factors may push toward action and enactment? How is the concept of enactment related to the concepts of neutrality and self-disclosure? How are enactments related to boundary crossings and boundary violations? Central articles from mainstream and relational analytic literature as well as clinical vignettes from participant’s experience will be discussed.