Thursday February 23

Early Bird One-Hour Open Sessions

7:15-8:15 A.M.

Session 203

Perspectives on Triangulation in Psychodynamic and Family Therapy

Chair:         

Ruth Hochberg, Ph.D., CGP, DFAGPA, Private Practice, Los Angeles, California

Presenter:         

Claire Rosenberg, LICSW, Clinical Social Worker, Austen Riggs Center, Stockbridge, Massachusetts

Perspectives on triangulation vary dramatically between practitioners of Individual and Family Psychodynamic therapy.  Developmental theory holds that the capacity to take in a third is a milestone, while many family therapists consider this to be a defensive liability.  The paper will address the interface between these perspectives which may allow those who practice in both modalities an opportunity to see useful connections.

Learning Objectives:

The attendee will be able to:

1. Summarize concepts of triangulation from different theory bases.

2. Integrate thinking about these differences.

3. Apply this integration to the practice of both individual and family therapy.

Course References:

1. Abelin, E. (1975).  Some Further Observations and Comments on the Earliest Role of the Father. International Journal of Psycho-Analysis, 56, 293.

2. Kerr, M. (1988). Chronic Anxiety and Defining a Self - An introduction to family system theory. The Atlantic Monthly.

3. Mahler, Pine, et.al. (1975).  The Psychological Birth of the Human Infant. New York, NY: Basic Book Publishers.