Basic Theses Behind the Concept of Narcissistic Distortion Cover Image

Osnovne teze koncepta narcističkog iskrivljenja
Basic Theses Behind the Concept of Narcissistic Distortion

Author(s): Maja Milić
Subject(s): Epistemology, Structuralism and Post-Structuralism, Psychology of Self, Psychoanalysis, Ontology
Published by: Филозофски факултет, Универзитет у Новом Саду
Keywords: psychoanalysis;Lacan;mirror stage;narcissistic mirroring distortion

Summary/Abstract: This paper offers the basic theses behind the concept of narcissistic distortion, which can take place in two directions – the paper explains subject formation and experience in so-called concave and convex narcissistic mirroring. The theory proposed in this paper largely relies on Lacan's mirror stage, and on his contribution to subject's development of self-consciousness through constitutive-imaginary dimensions of subjectivity. In cases of inserted concave or convex distortion, the subject locates themselves in the place of the Other, by identifying themselves with their own distorted mirror image in the Other. These distortions influence subject formation in a very concrete manner, carrying over the predisposition for certain instabilities in latter mirroring. The paper is illustrated with a case study aimed at easier understanding of the approach offered in it. It also provides a critical reflection on the possibility of plane mirror formation, as well as a detailed designation of convex distortion and four positions of concave narcissistic distortion.

  • Issue Year: 2020
  • Issue No: 33
  • Page Range: 267-288
  • Page Count: 22
  • Language: Serbian