Self-envy and intrapsychic interpretation

Self-envy is described as the consequence of an early split between differe nt part objects which form the structure of the oedipus complex. This takes place between an excluded destructive child part and another part usually modeled on a harmonic parental couple or on a creative and successful adult . The former will attach, paralyze, or destroy the latter, out of envy with in the self. There are three main advantages in using an intrapsychic inter pretation: (a) avoiding possible transference collusion in paranoid or perv erse borderline structures; (b) eliminating possible persecutory anxiety fr om superego part objects projected into the analyst; and (c) putting the co nflict in the right place, inasmuch as transference is a projection of inte rnal conflicts. Clinical material is presented.