The intersubjective turn in psychoanalysis: Theoretical features and divergences

Abstract: Intersubjective theory is one of the most important approaches in the field of contemporary psychoanalysis. Compared with the more traditional psychoanalysis, its theoretical characteristics can be concluded as follows: from a distinction of inside/outside space to an emphasis on in between space, from a subject-object relationship to a subject-subject relationship, from insight to action, from foundationalism and positivism to hermeneutics and constructivism. Despite the confusion of terminology and divergence of viewpoints, the intersubjective turn has spread to almost every psychoanalytic schools and widely influenced many analysts in North America, Europe and Latin America. Future intersubjective theory needs to keep open and make a constant dialogue with previous theories, clinical materials, and other disciplinary areas." "