About this Event
Freud expected opposition when he proposed the existence of a fundamental anti-life drive and the concept has remained contraversial.
Melanie Klein'slast theoretical innovation, primitive envy, was similarly met with considerable hostility. Psychoanalysts and psychotherapists have nevertheless found these challenging ways of thinking about human motivation and behaviour clinically helpful. This talk offers a space to consider how they have evolved in theory and practice and what their relevance might be in our work settings.
David Smart's starting point for this conversation is a chapter from his book The Kleinian Tradition for Psychotherapists and Counsellors. The phenomenon of envy is explored in relation to jealousy and greed, and consideration is given to when and how it might be taken up clinically. We go on to think about the Death Instinct, touching on the work of Irma Brenman Pick, Hanna Segal, Michael Feldman, David Bell and Ron Britton.
Participants will be invited to reflect on their own experience and practice.
How can these disturbing ideas illuminate what is troubling the people who come to us for help? Can they contribute to modifying dysfunctional patterns of response?
David Smart trained as a psychodynamic psychotherapist after a first career in Special Educational Needs. He has worked in NHS settings and as a school counsellor. For several years he led popular study groups on 'Kleinians since Klein', and his book, recently published by Routledge, grew out of these. Copies will be available at an introductory price at the event.
Light refreshments will be provided.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Manor House Centre, 80 East End Road, London, United Kingdom
GBP 55.00