An integrated model for understanding different treatments of psychoses

Authors

  • Stavros Mentzos

Abstract

A two-dimensional model of the psychodynamics of psychoses is presented: The axis between the self and the object (the “relationship”-axis) enables us to classify sensibly psychotic syndromes according to either a predominant focus on the self or on the object in terms of defence and compensation. The second axis represents the contrast between an overflowing imagination, emotionalism, and overstimulation on the one hand, and emotional depletion on the other.

Psychodynamically oriented therapeutic methods operate primarily within the first dimension (the relationship-axis); the results of behavioural and cognitive-therapeutic treatments as well as psychopharmacological therapies can be delineated best on the second axis. Using this model, and additionally taking into consideration the primary and secondary vicious circles inherent in the psychodynamics of psychoses, it is possible to define, differentiate, and integrate specific efficacies and special interactions of various methods of treatment in the case of psychosis.

Keywords:
Psychosis-psychotherapy, dynamics of psychoses, integration of therapies in psychosis.

Author Biography

Stavros Mentzos

Prof. Dr. med. Stavros Mentzos, Psychiater, Psychoanalytiker, ehemaliger Leiter der Abteilung für Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik der Universität Frankfurt.

Korrespondenz: Prof. em. Dr. Stavros Mentzos, Beethovenstraße 15, D-60325 Frankfurt

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Published

1997-10-01

How to Cite

Mentzos, S. (1997). An integrated model for understanding different treatments of psychoses. Psychotherapie-Wissenschaft, 5(4), 233–238. Retrieved from https://psychotherapie-wissenschaft.info/article/view/600

Issue

No. 4 (1997): Psychotherapie Forum 5/4 (veröffentlicht bei Springer Wien New York)

Section

Original Work

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