In the previous essay we considered the impact of cultural changes in today’s Egos development. Nowadays, when babies are born they are already immersed in virtual life and in a society that is characterized by the speed of information and transitory references. It means a higher exposition to ambiguities (less right or wrong, black or white) in an emotional stage that is not compatible with the maturity required for that (childhood). This is not controversial. This is how it is. This is normal. Physical and emotional growth keep following the same script: children introject identity references, especially the ones coming from family. Puberty and adolescence are marked by erotization, idealization and existential anguish arousal. Cultural changes from the 20th century had an impact on a more flexible upbringing and on egos better defined by the lack of contour than by repression. But what is characteristic of the 21st century is individuals that don ‘t know what it is like to have a life outside the internet[1]. It is early to understand to which extent structural changes had an impact on today’s identity and forms of life, since it is still an ongoing experience, except for the aspects mentioned above. As a matter of fact, lack of contour is linked to anxiety, although anxiety is not the final cause of symptoms. It is a symptom itself. Tautology brings a bit of conceptual confusion. In other words, explaining symptoms through symptoms doesn’t help clinical strategy. Anxiety, as well as difficulties in sociability, emotional dysfunctions or psychosomatic diseases are symptoms of anguishes and not symptoms of anxiety. Anguishes may be real (circumstantial), existential or pathological (neurotic). Apart from these generalizations, each case has to be evaluated in its peculiarities. It is worth increasing individual’s contention with any available tool- breathing practices, meditation, physical activities and medication[2] . In some cases, however, they will not be enough. In these cases, solving anxiety crisis will be the consequence of restructuring (or developing, depending on the case) a healthy Ego. Healthy Egos are an integrated ones. They dig into their own fears, shames, “not fitting” aspects and keep their feet on the ground. Therefore, they can admit their feelings, handle difficulties and are able to search out the best way to fulfill their needs and desires[3][4], i.e, have a meaningful life. Obviously, they have to know what their needs and desires are. Tranquility comes along with emotional growth. In a nutshell, what happens in psychotherapies today is that we are treating individuals that have broader and higher expectations of personal fulfillment. To be continued on the next Post
[1] For more details see Post 7- Post Superego do and the Crisis of Authority, Post 8-Contourless Ego, Post 9- Limits versus Contour, Post 13- Millennials and Centennials- Egos’ change, in Essay 7- Cultural changes on Identity. In: http://www.ceciliapsicologa.org [2] Assertions above attest my clinical perception of anxiety based, mainly, on Psychodramatic Analysis referential. They do not imply judgment regarding efficacy of other methods used for treating anxiety. [3]Dias, V.S. Psychodramatic Analysis. Theory and practice.(1986). Ágora. São Paulo. [4] ___________________________. Psychopathology and psychodynamics in Psychodramatic Analysis. (2006). Ágora. São Paulo
V.I (2006). Ágora. SP
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