„Zunächst wegen eines persönlichen Motivs“ – Über das psychoanalytische Arbeiten im Sitzen

The psychoanalytic work is closely associated with lying on a treatment couch. This is evident not only within professional circles but is also apparent in media and pop-cultural representations of psychoanalysis. The submitted manuscript, starting from Freud’s text on the initiation of treatment, raises the question of what personal motives could accompany the establishment of this setting, beyond the better-known and more considered technical considerations. This seems worthwhile, as working in a reclined position appears to be considered more “psychoanalytic” compared to working in a seated position. In this context, the essay discusses partially unconscious notions of an ideal self, which psychoanalytic therapists may be guided by. Drawing from theories of the ideal self and shame, this essay explores inhibiting fears on the part of the therapist that, in failing to meet this ideal, they may be cast out from their own group into a non-psychoanalytic existence. Accordingly, the perspective arises that therapeutic work in a seated position poses specific challenges for the analyst, particularly affecting the inner framework of the therapist and emphasizing the necessity of self-analytic skills.