Abstract
I argue in this paper that contrary to the usual assumption of an incompatibility between autonomy and relatedness, in healthy functioning the two trends operate compatibly. I argue further that the autonomy linked to self-realization and creativity depend on and entail object relations. More generally, I suggest that there is an important distinction between self-realization and self-absorption and that the former entails directing one’s interests outward toward objects rather than inward toward oneself. I illustrate these ideas through reference to poetry and the clinical situation.
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Plenary paper given at AAPCSW 2011 Conference, March 17–20, 2011, Marina del Rey, CA.
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Eagle, M. Autonomy & Relatedness: Self-Realization Versus Self-Absorption. Clin Soc Work J 41, 20–25 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10615-011-0369-7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10615-011-0369-7