Heinz Kohut's (1971) is a seminal text that launched the field of Self Psychology . It challenged traditional Freudian orthodoxy by shifting the focus from internal drive conflicts to the development and maintenance of a cohesive "self". Core Theoretical Framework
: Kohut proposed that a healthy self is established through two main poles: The Analysis of the Self: A Systematic Approach...
Kohut redefined not as a stage to be outgrown, but as a separate line of development that persists throughout life. Heinz Kohut's (1971) is a seminal text that
: Unlike the abstract ego, the "self" is viewed as an "experience-near" structure responsible for maintaining a sense of continuity and well-being. : Unlike the abstract ego, the "self" is
: Develops through "mirroring" (affirmation) from others.
: These are external individuals (originally caregivers) experienced as part of the self. They perform vital functions—such as soothing or validating—that the person cannot yet do for themselves.