The Crossroads Between Self Psychology and LGBT Clients: A Case Study

Date of Award

Summer 8-22-2015

Document Type

Doctoral Research Paper

Degree Name

Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology

Organizational Unit

Graduate School of Professional Psychology

First Advisor

Peter Buirski

Second Advisor

Artur Poczwardowski

Third Advisor

Sheila Kamlet

Copyright Statement / License for Reuse

All Rights Reserved
All Rights Reserved.

Keywords

Self psychology, LGBT youth, Sexual identity formation, Internalized shame

Abstract

Heinz Hohut provided a new approach to therapeutic work with the development of self psychology. Kohut emphasized that misattunements and the internalization of shame during formative years sets the foundation for fragmentation of the self. Unfortunately, individuals who identify on the LGBT spectrum often times receive early messages of rejection regarding their sexual identity as a result of the heterosexist society in which we live. Therefore, this population may have developed internalized shame and self-hatred from early injuries during their sexual identity formation. This paper examines the importance of reparative selfobject experiences. as emphasized in self psychology, when working with LGBT clients who have experienced early injuries during their sexual identity formation. A case study is used to illustrate the process of reparative experiences during treatment between a straight therapist and a lesbian client. Additionally, it demonstrates the manner in which a self psychological approach with some LGBT clients can lead to overall greater self-cohesion. as indicated by an increase in self-esteem and greater self-soothing capabilities.

Copyright Date

6-23-2015

Publication Statement

Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.

Rights Holder

Addriene Kearney Franks

Provenance

Received from Author

File Format

application/pdf

Language

English (eng)

Extent

25 pgs

File Size

11.6 MB

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