Review article

OBJECT AND SUBJECT RELATIONS IN ADULTHOOD – TOWARDS AN INTEGRATIVE MODEL OF INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS

Gregor Žvelc orcid.org/0000-0003-0429-9882 ; Institute for Integrative Psychotherapy and Counselling, Ljubljana, Slovenia

Abstract

In the article the author presents a model of interpersonal relationships based on integration of object relations theory and
theory of attachment. He proposes three main bipolar dimensions of interpersonal relationships: Independence – Dependence,
Connectedness – Alienation and Reciprocity – Self-absorption. The author also proposes that it is important to distinguish between
two main types of adult interpersonal relationships: object and subject relations. Object relations describe relationships in which the
other person is perceived as an object that serves the satisfaction of the first person's needs. Object relations are a manifestation of
the right pole of the three main dimensions of interpersonal relationships (Dependence, Alienation and Self-absorption). Subject
relations are a counter-pole to the concept of object relations. They describe relationships with other people who are experienced as
subjects with their own wishes, interests and needs. Subject relations are a manifestation of the left pole of the main dimensions
(Independence, Connectedness and Reciprocity). In this article the author specifically focuses on definitions of object relations in
adulthood through a description of six sub-dimensions of object relations: Symbiotic Merging, Separation Anxiety, Social Isolation,
Fear of Engulfment, Egocentrism and Narcissism. Every sub-dimension is described in connection to adaptive and pathological
functioning. Further research is needed to test the clinical and scientific validity of the model.

Keywords

object relations; subject relations; attachment theory; interpersonal relationships; adult relatedness

Hrčak ID:

76370

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/76370

Publication date:

8.12.2010.

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