title: The Transformation of the Heart: An Object Relations Perspective.
abstract: The author asserts that the closed heart referred to in the Scriptures manifests itself through a defensive false self and an I-It mode of relating. Through an object relations informed treatment, it is proposed that the closed heart may be transformed into an open heart manifested through a real self and I-Thou forms of relating. This transformation allows the individual to love self and others in a more mature way.
authors.affiliation: Des Moines, IA curtrich@outlook.com.
authors.forename: Curtis R
authors.initials: CR
authors.lastname: Rich
mesh_terms: D004645:Empathy; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008149:Love; D009769:Object Attachment; D010327:Pastoral Care; D011582:Psychological Theory
keywords: object relations; open heart; transformation