therapeutic regression
Controlled return to earlier developmental modes within the safety of the analytic relationship to facilitate psychological growth.
Full Definition
Therapeutic regression describes the planned and contained revival of earlier developmental states, defenses, and relational patterns within the protective framework of psychoanalytic treatment. Unlike pathological regression, this process serves therapeutic goals by allowing the working through of developmental arrests and traumatic experiences in a safe relational context. The concept requires careful clinical management to distinguish between beneficial regression that promotes growth and malignant regression that may be harmful or interminable.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from simple 'regression' and specify therapeutic context when editing clinical material.
In Context
- "The patient's therapeutic regression allowed for the emergence of previously inaccessible early memories." — Case presentation
- "Careful attention to therapeutic regression prevented the treatment from becoming interminable." — Clinical technique paper