Object relations units and the ego.
The author selectively reviews the literature on object relations units and suggests that a fourth element, ego functioning, should be added to self, object, and affect-sensation for a more clinically comprehensive theory. He suggests that ego functioning may always shift with self, object, and affect-perception in an organically integrated fashion. Such a conceptualization can apply to both healthier and less well-integrated individuals. This expanded concept may or may not be sufficiently comprehensive to replace the traditional structural theory of id, ego, and superego.
Hamilton
N G
NG
Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201-3098, USA.
D000328:Adult; D000339:Affect; D001883:Borderline Personality Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology; D004532:Ego; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009769:Object Attachment; D010553:Personality Development; D011574:Psychoanalytic Theory; D011575:Psychoanalytic Therapy