Obsessions versus obsessions: a (re)construction of meaning

Abstract

In this article obsessions and phobic responses are examined in relation to the maintenance of a cross-generational condition organized by a premise about exclusivity, as well as the specific, idiosyncratic “signature premises” carchteristic to each case. It is suggested that the obsession develops when a developmental or situational crisis conflicts with the exclusive relationship definition (that is coalition). Two forms of intervention for disrupting obsessions -the “conversation” and the “counter-obsession”- are discussed and illustrated. Both interventions conceptualize the obsession as an oscillation between remaining in the coalition and not remaining in the coalition, and both interventions challenge the signature premise that difines coalition.