A problemática do holding corporal na análise do paciente borderline: um estudo de caso

Abstract

This study aims to reflect on the need for physical contact with the psychologist of a borderline patient attended at a public institution. To this end, aspects of the Theory of the Maturing of D.W.Winnicott and their application in the clinic, such as body holding, regression management and egoic needs are included here. Also discussed are questions of technique, transference and countertransference, involving the abstinence rule, analyst neutrality and the necessary modification of classical psychoanalysis in the care of patients who have suffered from inadequate environmental care in a phase of absolute dependence. Diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, the patient in question was assisted in a task group proposal and in individual consultations when she requested it. It was possible to conclude that in some moments, the attendance to the need for corporal contact - touch to the hands and the hair - proved adequate to unfreeze the environmental fault lived by the patient in the beginnings of its existence; in others, however, it was important to deny her the request in order to safeguard the setting and the psychologist as a real person in the treatment