‘The Body Present/The Body Absent in Psychoanalytic Theory: A Contemporary Perspective”
Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025; 7:00 to 8:45 pm Pacific Time
Presenter: Joseph Aguayo, PhD, FIPA
Narrative description of presentation: In this presentation, Joseph Aguayo explores the transition from the conceptual frameworks established by Freud and Klein, particularly their differing views on the sexual and pathological body, to more contemporary perspectives. He focuses on the contributions of Thomas Ogden and Giuseppe Civitarese, specifically Ogden’s concept of the “autistic-contiguous position” and Civitarese’s notion of “somatic reverie.” These modern approaches emphasize the role of normal or ordinary sensory experiences, offering a more comprehensive understanding of how somatic experiences shape our bodily-centered listening when engaging with patients.
Learning Objectives: Upon completing this scientific meeting, participants will be able to:
Distinguish between Freud's and Klein's conceptualizations of the sexual and pathological body, highlighting their unique theoretical perspectives.
Analyze Ogden’s conception of the “autistic-contiguous position” and explain how it signifies a shift from understanding the pathological body to emphasizing normal sensory experiences.
Apply Civitarese’s concept of “somatic reverie” to enhance the analytic relationship and deepen bodily-centered listening in clinical practice.