Abstract
This chapter explores the possible contributions of psychoanalytic theory to sustainable peace. The chapter traces the development of psychoanalysis from a drive-based theory to a relational one, and the implications of both constructs to group and intergroup dynamics relevant to sustainable peace. Whereas the former involves the management of potentially destructive group defenses stemming from the struggle to contain the aggressive drive, the latter focuses on the employment of empathy and the developmental processes of separation-individuation and internalization. The roles of healthy and unhealthy narcissism, mirroring, mourning, and secondary aggression are also explored. Finally the chapter discusses some the future implications and practical applications of the concepts presented.
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According to Bion (1961) in basic assumption fight-flight, the group acts as if it has gathered to preserve itself and that this can only be achieved by fighting someone or something or by running away. This type of group values action rather than debate or introspection, and as pointed out by Kernberg (1980), the leader of such a group is often an individual prone to use of primitive defenses such as splitting, and who is capable of detecting, if not imagining or creating, enemies. In basic assumption dependency, the group acts as if its members are all incompetent and ignorant and therefore completely dependent on the leader, who must be omnipotent and omniscient. All basic assumption groups involve irrational, unconscious and regressive processes that have the potential to either interfere or enhance the group’s primary tasks.
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Gratch, A. (2012). The Psychodynamics of Peace. In: Coleman, P. (eds) Psychological Components of Sustainable Peace. Peace Psychology Book Series. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-3555-6_11
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