Intersubjectivity and interaction in the analytic relationship: A mainstream view

The authors conceptualize intersubjectivity as a meta-theory that reflects the inherent nature of human relatedness and is conceptually independent of any particular theory of mind or school of psychoanalysis. Their view of i ntersubjectivity joins the emotional life of the analyst to that of the pat ient and places the analytic relationship at the center of the analytic pro cess. They contrast intersubjectivity with traditional classical conflict t heory so as to clarify the relevance of intersubjectivity for psychoanalyti c clinical theory and therapeutic practice. In so doing, they hope to direc t analysts more firmly toward the study of the unconscious dyadic contribut ions to the affective, enactive, and interactive dimensions of the analytic situation and their impact upon the patient's actions within and experienc e of the analytic relationship. To illustrate their thesis, two hours from an analysis are presented in detail.