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Melanie klein's work: An adaptation in practice

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Abstract

Kleinian theory seems both intimidating and alien to many American psychotherapists. This paper offers an entry into Klein's work. The theory is approached by emphasizing three areas especially valuable in clinical practice: mourning and manic defenses, schizoid relationships, and envy and idealization. A detailed presentation of an individual psychotherapy case is offered as an illustration of how her ideas may be integrated into a broader objectrelations treatment perspective.

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Burch, B. Melanie klein's work: An adaptation in practice. Clin Soc Work J 16, 125–142 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00754445

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