Community Psychoanalysis: A Contribution to an Emerging Paradigm

Transforming psychoanalysis for the public

This essay explores the inextricable connection between the psyche and the social, and its relevance to contemporary global challenges, such as isolation and polarization. The author discusses the possibilities that psychoanalysis holds for the public good, underscoring the application of psychoanalytic knowledge to understanding the social world and creating greater access to psychoanalytic knowledge. Notably, transforming psychoanalysis to reflect multiple sociocultural subjectivities and addressing the polarization within psychoanalysis is critical for this endeavour.

Identity and Community: Erikson Reconsidered

In this paper, I present a new reading of Erik Erikson's theory of epigenetic stages of development, with particular attention to the concept of identity. I show that Erikson's psychosocial approach requires close attention to the role of the community in the formation of individual identity and to the importance of the stage of generativity as an often overlooked component in understanding both identity and the whole Eriksonian life cycle.

A systematic review of psychodynamic theories in community psychology: Discovering the unconscious in community work

The aim of this systematic review is to provide a narrative synthesis of the peer-reviewed literature regarding the role of psychodynamics in community psychology. The authors screened 301 records on the topic, found in major citation databases (Scopus and Web of Science) without time or language restrictions. Ten articles addressing the review question were identified, showing the contributions of interpersonal psychoanalysis, Adlerian psychology, the Tavistock psychodynamic model, and Lacanian psychoanalysis. Several points of synergy between community psychology and psychodynamics were outlined mainly concerning empowerment theory, preventative and ecological perspective, power, and social order. Besides, the view on the community life, the role of emotion, and the conceptualization of the unconscious domain are discussed. Implications for community interventions are highlighted, regarding clients' demands, the role of community practitioners, and the use of transference/countertransference in consultative work. Limitations and future directions are also considered.