Cognitive and emotional aspects of maladaptive interpersonal patterns, a dynamic systems approach
Year: 1997
Type: dissertation
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to test the utility of a dynamic systems model and methodology for the study of personality, and, more specifically.the mechanisrns underlying repetitive mdadaptive behaviour.Several sireams of thinking within psychoanalytic theory, personality theory, emotional and cognitive theory were reviewed.The basic principles of dynamic systems theory were reviewed.and a specific dynamic systems model for understanding personality organization and the maintenance of maladaptive interpersonal behaviours was advanced (Lewis.1995; Lewis & Junyk. in press).These behaviours were seen as self-organizing in the moment from cognitive and emotional components, and ar times serving a defensive function by protecting the individual from the intense anxiety associated with particular states.The researcher then went on to test this theoretid model with empirical clinical data.The data were gathered from viewing videotaped records of psychotherapy sessions for one subject.The data were subjected to both a qualitative and quantitative analysis.In the qualitative analysis.a dynamic systems mode1 of the subject's personality state space was constructed.In this model, repetitive maladaptive behaviours were described as defensive attractors on the personality state space, and avoided states were As in any large undertaking.there are many people who played a role, directly and indirectly. in enabling me to complete this project.1 would Like to thank my supervisor.Dr. Marc Lewis, for introducing me to dynamic systerns.and for inspiring me with his enthusiasm for learning and research.1 am also grateful to my other cornmitte memben
Author: Natalka Junyk Sharman
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W3155711747