1.Freud’s 『Phylogenetic Fantasy』 and Lamarckism:Evolution, Racial Science, and the Intellectual History of Psychoanalysis
Psychoanalysis 2026;37(2):33-47
This paper analyzes, from an intellectual-historical perspective, how Lamarckism and the concept of phylogenesis functioned within metapsychological neurosis theory, focusing on Freud’s unpublished manuscript A Phylogenetic Fantasy (circa 1915).Originally conceived as a metapsychological draft titled Overview of the Transference Neuroses, the manuscript compares thetransference neuroses in its first half, then introduces phylogenetic hypotheses in a limited way under the designation of “fantasy,” mediated by the problem of “disposition” in its second half. Focusing on this juncture, this paper reconstructs the context in which phylogenetic speculation emerged as a hypothetical layer for addressing explanatory difficulties arising from ontogenesis-centered frameworks, and examines how its variations shift into the narrative modes of Totem and Taboo and Moses and Monothe-ism. Furthermore, through comparison with contemporary evolutionary anthropology, gene-culture coevolution theory, and epi-genetics, this paper discusses the conditions under which the problem of “transmission” that Freud sought to capture in thelanguage of biology might be redescribed in alternative conceptual terms. In conclusion, rather than choosing between defendingor discarding Lamarckism, this paper presents, within the intellectual history of psychoanalysis, the significance of the very ten-sion through which phylogenetic thinking was both invoked and suspended.
2.From Co-Presence to Co-Prediction:A Psychoanalytic Reconsideration of Intersubjectivity in Hybrid Environments
Psychoanalysis 2026;37(2):20-32
Hybrid educational environments, combining in-person and real-time remote participation, have become increasingly common, yet their implications for psychoanalytic intersubjectivity remain underexplored. Classical psychoanalytic models presuppose bodily co-presence, offering limited conceptual resources for understanding technologically mediated interaction. Drawing on intersubjective psychoanalysis and selected insights from social neuroscience, this paper argues that hybrid settings alter the conditions under which intersubjectivity is sustained by weakening automatic bodily resonance and foregrounding anticipation, inference, and imaginative supplementation. To capture this shift, the paper introduces co-prediction as a descriptive analytic concept, referring not to a new psychoanalytic mechanism but to the heightened visibility of transference, fantasy, and expectation under conditions of senso-ry asymmetry and technological mediation. Based on a reflective analysis of the author’s experience in a psychoanalytic trainingprogram that transitioned from remote to hybrid instruction, the paper suggests that hybrid environments render explicit the inherently incomplete and predictive character of intersubjective experience.
3.Reactivation of Oedipal Complex in Adolescence and Self-Destruction: Based on a Movie “The Son”
Psychoanalysis 2026;37(2):11-19
This paper examines the reactivation of the Oedipus complex during adolescence and its link to self-destructive behaviorthrough a psychoanalytic analysis of the film “The Son (2022)”, directed by Florian Zeller. Adolescence is a developmental stage characterized by the resurfacing of early conflicts, especially in response to traumatic events like parental divorce. The protagonist, Nicolas, exhibits depression, school refusal, and multiple suicide attempts following his parents’ divorce and his father’s remarriage, which serve as traumatic triggers. From a psychodynamic perspective, the disruption of an idealized paternal figure leads to the reactivation of Oedipal conflicts marked by rivalry, aggression, and ambivalence toward the father. These conflicts intersect with the narcissistic vulnerability and immature ego functioning typical of adolescence. Nicolas resorts to omnipotent fantasies as a defense mechanism to cope with feelings of helplessness, loss, and internal struggle. Nonetheless, repeated narcissistic injuries and the lack of stabilizing object relations cause aggression to turn inward, resulting in self-destructive behavior.The film further illustrates the intergenerational transmission of narcissistic dynamics in the father-son relationship, emphasizing how unresolved paternal narcissism contributes to the adolescent’s fragile sense of self. This analysis highlights the necessi-ty of understanding adolescent suicidal behavior through a developmental psychoanalytic lens that incorporates unconscious fanta-sies, object relations, and family dynamics. Such an approach has important implications for the clinical assessment and therapeutic intervention of adolescents at risk for self-destructive behavior.
4.Mythology and the Unconscious:Focusing on Greek Mythology
Psychoanalysis 2025;36(2):36-47
This is the author’s second paper on the unconscious and space. In the first paper, based on Freud’s short thought about space (Freud 1938), the author analyzed the external space as a projection full of an individual’s extended psychic apparatus, object, and unconscious fantasies (Lee et al. 2023). Based on this result, the author analyzed the myth and expanded the unconscious space into a group, hypothesized and argued that there were traces of object function, psychic apparatus, and the unconscious fantasies shared by group members in the myth space. The author understood this psychologic function of myth as group objects, group superego, and group ego area. Although it has several limitations, this paper provides a framework for psychoanalytic under-standing of collective space and presents a new and meaningful perspective on myths.
5.Psychological Mechanisms of Nonsuicidal Self-Injury:Theoretical Developments and Therapeutic Implications From Traditional to Recent Models
Psychoanalysis 2025;36(2):19-27
Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) has emerged as a significant clinical concern due to its high prevalence and serious psychological consequences. From a psychoanalytic perspective, NSSI is closely associated with the expression of thanatos and aggressive drives, while ego psychology interprets it as a manifestation of fragile ego functions. Object relations theory connects NSSI to borderline instability, which arises from an inability to achieve object constancy. These foundational concepts have given rise to various psychological models over the past two decades. This review examines the development of theoretical models that ex-plain the psychological mechanisms underlying NSSI and discusses their therapeutic implications. Traditional models, such as the Four-Function Model, Experiential Avoidance Model, and Integrated Model, primarily focus on the functions of NSSI and its role in emotion regulation, emphasizing the concept of negative reinforcement. In contrast, more recent models, including the Emo-tional Cascade Model, Cognitive-Emotional Model, and Benefits and Barriers Model, highlight the interplay between cognitive strategies and emotional responses. These newer models propose a more comprehensive and individualized approach by incorpo-rating cognitive restructuring and barrier enhancement, alongside cognitive and social factors. Currently, there is a lack of “wellestablished” evidence-based treatments for NSSI. Existing interventions primarily target the improvement of emotion regulation skills through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. However, the integration of cognitive and social elements from recent models may facilitate the development of more tailored and effective treatment strategies. Future efforts should focus on the creation of personalized interventions that address individual differences in cognitive expectations and barri-ers related to NSSI and assess their effectiveness.
6.Earth in Which Creative Footings Root: Rendering Silence Through Winnicott’s Concepts
Psychoanalysis 2025;36(2):28-35
This treatise examined the intricate relationship between silence, solitude, and creativity in psychoanalytic perspective. Starting with an overview of how silence was understood, the paper subsequently explained in depth the interrelation among silence, solitude, and creativity and concluded with therapeutic implication. It focused on understanding the capacity to be alone not only as a mature or highly sophisticated phenomenon, but also a phenomenon of early life. While transitional phenomena have been extensively studied in relation to creativity, the current discourse attempts to convey that the nascent form of “being” also certainly is linked to creativity. It could be regarded as what Winnicott had sought to reach through his developing course of writings from 1958 to 1971. It seems that imposed silence, as an environment, is a prerequisite for fostering the capacity to be alone. There can also be chosen silence as a manifestation that contains solitude, the incommunicado element, and the core self. When this state manifested as chosen silence encounters a sensation or an impulse, creativity might be culminated. In brief, silence and capacity to be alone can develop in tandem into chosen silence of quietude and solitude, respectively. Using and rediscovering impulses into creative expressions are then feasible. Thus, in the interest of creativity, analysts should respect patient’s silence.
7.A Better Way to Understand Children’s Minds:Lessons From “Inside Out”
Psychoanalysis 2025;36(1):14-18
Discussing disruptive behavioral problems with the general public, children, and parents is one of the major tasks faced by medical specialists, particularly psychiatrists. Understanding children’s emotional problems is particularly challenging. Empathizing withthem can be equally difficult. In this regard, movies such as “Inside Out” provide valuable tools for medical staff to communicate with the general population. The film is an animation that personifies basic emotions of joy, sadness, anger, fear, and disgust in themind of a young girl, Riley, struggling to adapt to environmental changes, which subsequently leads to her deviant behavior, deci-sion-making, and actions. Other factors influencing emotions include memory and dream processing. These films can also be usedas educational resources for medical students.
8.Relationship Between Non-Suicidal Self-Injury and Substance Addiction in Modern Society: Exploration and Comprehension Through a Psychoanalytic Perspective
Hyunju LEE ; Jooyoun SONG ; Han-Sung LEE
Psychoanalysis 2025;36(1):9-13
Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and substance addiction have seen a significant rise among adolescents and young adults in re-cent years. This increase is closely linked to digitalization of the modern society, which has dramatically altered how young in-dividuals interact and communicate. Although the use of smartphones, social media, and online interactions has facilitated fast information exchange and increased connectivity, it has also contributed to heightened emotional distress, isolation, and a sense of inner emptiness. NSSI and addiction are seemingly distinct issues. However, they share underlying psychological mecha-nisms such as emotional dysregulation and the reliance on harmful behaviors to cope with psychological pain. These behaviors often serve as attempts to manage unprocessed negative emotions and unresolved inner conflicts. This paper explores NSSI and addiction from a psychoanalytic perspective, focusing on psychological complexities that drive these behaviors. It also exam-ines how the lack of real-object experiences in a digital environment can lead to inner voids that individuals attempt to fill through self-destructive behaviors. The importance of understanding these phenomena from a psychoanalytic standpoint is em-phasized. It provides deeper insight into underlying causes and guides therapeutic approaches. By acting as a developmental ob-ject, a therapist can help patients address unmet developmental needs, mitigate inner conflicts, and establish healthier selfboundaries. This approach is crucial for enabling effective intervention and fostering long-term emotional stability.
9.Contemporary Psychoanalytic Insights in Quantum Psychology: Quantum-Psychoanalytic Reinterpretation of Kafka’s ‘The Metamorphosis’
Psychoanalysis 2025;36(1):1-8
This paper explored the intersection of contemporary psychoanalytic theory and quantum psychology, offering a novel reinterpretation of Franz Kafka’s ‘The Metamorphosis’ through the lens of quantum-psychoanalytic concepts. By integrating Wilfred Bion’s Grid and Alpha Function with principles of quantum mechanics, this study delved into complex psychological dynamics at play within the protagonist, Gregor Samsa. Transformation of Gregor into a giant insect was reinterpreted not merely as a manifestation of his repressed emotions, but as a failure of psychic transformation within Bion’s framework, where unprocessed beta elements resulted in a catastrophic physical metamorphosis. Additionally, the observer effect was applied to analyze multifacetedpsychological interactions between Gregor and his family members, highlighting how observation and perception could influencepsychological states. This interdisciplinary approach not only provides deeper insight into psychological underpinnings of Kafka’s narrative, but also demonstrates the potential for psychoanalytic theory and quantum psychology to mutually inform and enrich each other in the analysis of literary texts.
10.Impact of Confucianism on the Early Phase of Analytic Treatment
Psychoanalysis 2024;35(4):37-41
There has been interest in the impact of the cultural background of analysand and analyst on psychoanalysis. Basch-Kakre(1984) argued that analyst may have more difficulty in treating analysand with different sociocultural background. There was a claim that the characteristics of Asians were not suitable for psychoanalysis. Akhtar (1999) argues that theories are likely to come from racial discourse. Psychoanalysis has been successful in non-western countries. After Confucius was born, Confu-cianism of Confucius and Confucians for 2500 years in China, Vietnam, Japan, and Korea developed with various religions and ideologies that were controversial with them and developed differently in each country. I think it is helpful to consider the effect of Confucianism on the psychoanalysis for understanding patients.

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