No audience : mind constructed through representation of self

This study uses the single case study method to provide an illustration of aspects of mental representation and its relationship to mirroring. People with Borderline Personality Disorder often perform self-destructive behaviours, and cutting and bulimia are frequent symptoms (Fonagy, Target, Gergely, Allen & Bateman 2003; DSM-IV-TR, 2007). These behaviours have been linked to early attachment relationship difficulties, which result in problems with affect regulation (Fonagy & Target, 2006), and the ability to mentalize and maintain a clear sense of a core self (Bateman & Fonagy, 2004). In this research I am looking at the representation of affective states and beliefs, thoughts and intentions in current behaviour, and its link to early attachment difficulties. I am particularly interested in the phenomenon of cutting in people with Borderline Personality Disorder, and how this is conceptualised in mentalization literature. I will use case material from a patient of mine to illustrate the argument that cutting, and then photographing the results, is used as a form of self-representation, or mirroring of self states.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Department of Psychology

Year dc:date.issued

2010

Author dc:creator

• Martin, Philippa

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Swartz, Sally

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11427/14617

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.uct.ac.za:11427/14617