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Transformations at the Dawn of Verbal Language.

Transformations at the Dawn of Verbal Language.

Authors :
Ogden, Thomas H.
Source :
Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association; Oct2024, Vol. 72 Issue 5, p743-754, 12p
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

In this essay the author describes some of the transformations that occur as one moves from preverbal functioning to verbally symbolic language. In preverbal experience, there is a direct connection between the sign and what is signified. An infant or child signifies displeasure by throwing his food or other objects to the floor. Much of the emotional tie between mother and infant and patient and analyst is communicated in this way. When a transformation occurs from preverbal to verbally symbolic language, as occurs in early development and as one interprets a dream, meaning is not merely translated, meaning is created. On acquiring verbally symbolic language, a "space" mediated by an interpreting subject opens between the symbol (for instance, the word guilt) and the symbolized (the experience of guilt) and a new subjectivity is created. On entry into verbally symbolic language, one becomes able to experience oneself in a qualitatively different way; one becomes both subject and object, I and me; one becomes able to experience a far broader range of feelings and types of thinking. Helen Keller's account of her experience of acquiring verbally symbolic language is drawn upon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
00030651
Volume :
72
Issue :
5
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
181620954
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1177/00030651241257263