Ego erection - Regressive perceptual phenomena in relation to psychic growth

Regressive phenomena involving alterations of perceptual and other ego func tions are exemplified by the Isakower phenomenon. Originally considered to be a defensive process involving regression to the oral phase in the face o f conflict, a number of additional dimensions have been clarified in the li terature over time This paper describes analytic work with a patient who ex perienced distortions in the perception of his body on the couch. It examin es the relationship of these experiences to the Isakower phenomenon. With c lose attention to analytic case material it corroborates the oral core, the defensive structure, and the transformational processes characteristic of the episodes. Further, this case demonstrates that orally rooted ego phenom ena, arising in response to oedipal conflict, can call forth the analysis o f attachment. The vicissitudes of these phenomena throughout an analysis ca n give representation to the developing capacity for emotional attachment. The capacity for physical attachment, achieved in infancy via the mouth and breast, gives rise incrementally to the capacity for psychic attachment, a chieved in adulthood by the waning of the Oedipal complex.