Representation and structure in a developmental psychopathology perspective

An attempt. to define "psychic structure" leads to the conclusion, that "st ructure" provides adaptive behavioral strategies for the interaction of the person with a physical and social world by representing experiences of ear lier interactions in memory processes. Compatibility of different definitio ns of "structure" in psychopathology and psychoanalysis is being discussed. Developmental aspects of a "theory of mind" in children and of different m odes of representation have to be addressed. A "multiple code theory" of W. Bucci is introduced. Conclusions for diagnosis and therapy in psychodynami c approaches will be drawn. It has to be faced, that children represent opt imal structures in each level of psychic development, noting the importance of age-relevant normative measures.