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The concept of projective identification has, since its introduction by Melanie Klein over half a century ago, caused much controversy amongst psychoanalysts and psychotherapists. In this paper the author traces some of the key theoretical developments of the concept since its introduction in 1946, including: normal and pathological projective identification, aspects of symbolisation and projective identification as an intrapsychic mechanism. An extended case report of a patient in weekly psychoanalytic psychotherapy is offered in order to expand upon some of the theoretical ideas previously considered. Emphasis is placed on the patient's use of intrapsychic projective mechanisms and the emergence and mutation of such mechanisms in the therapeutic relationship.

This paper explores the idea that electronic computer-based media, also referred to as the new technologies, may act as receptacles for and transmitters of projected aspects of the self. These aspects of the self then enter into relations with a new and emerging range of technologically generated objects, which may critically influence aspects of the therapeutic relationship. In the virtual worlds that evolve in relation to the new technologies, obsessional thinking and compulsive behaviours may be stimulated, precisely because split off aspects of the self must be constantly monitored as stored images, interacting with signifiers in the technological chain, often felt to be under threat from a range of potentially persecutory and bizarre objects [Bion, 1962. A theory of thinking. International Journal of Psychoanalysis. 43]. It is suggested that an intra-psychic representation of the self, the mediated self, may evolve based on a blurring of the lines of demarcation between projected/introjected elements of the self and its objects. Drawing upon clinical case material, where appropriate, the author also discusses some similarities and differences between various forms of substance addiction, computer compulsions and, more broadly, the idea of the fetishistic object relation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores a particular kind of defensive structure - automata states - and examines elements of this mechanism as it may emerge in the therapeutic relationship. The ideas presented may be of particular interest to therapists treating so-called borderline patients, including patients who at times deploy high levels of aggression and violence, towards the self and others. Consideration is given to the re-firing of communicative projective processes, which may have been employed during infancy and childhood, and that may have been dormant for a lengthy period. Such projective dynamics are linked to grossly disorganized attachment patterns during infancy where, it would appear, there has been a critical lack of reflective function and mentalization on behalf of the primary caregivers. The author argues that, with certain individuals, it may be possible to approach new ways of exploring and expressing such underlying psychodynamics in the therapeutic relationship. Clinical case material is included, in order to contextualize and further develop the ideas presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]