disorders of the self

in self psychology, narcissistic problems resulting from insufficient response by others (such as parents) to one’s needs. According to this view, an individual’s self-cohesion, self-esteem, and vitality derive from and are maintained by the empathic responsiveness of others; lack of this response can lead to deficiencies or inabilities in loving other people and to a focus on oneself. [defined by Austrian-born U.S. psychoanalyst Heinz Kohut (1913–1981)]

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Psychology term of the day

May 8th 2024

ontogeny

n. the biological origin and development of an individual organism from fertilization of the egg cell until death. Also called ontogenesis. Compare phylogeny. See also recapitulation theory. —ontogenetic adj.