O corpo petrificado: um caso de conversão histérica e mutismo seletivo
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/sppa%20revista.v24i2.223Keywords:
Hysterical conversion, selective mutism, Iran, FeminismAbstract
A glance at the evolution of psychoanalysis reveals body to have always been central to the function and development of the mind. Hysteria, and its defining characteristic conversion, are responsive to cultural currents and in places like Iran, the limited range of social and interpersonal options for women make such an autoplastic solution still likely. This article details psychoanalytic treatment of a young woman presenting with hysterical conversion and selective mutism in Iran. The patient, who was wheelchair-bound and mute presented after an extended coma following a dramatic rejection by a romantic partner. Her presentation brought to mind notions of essential depression and negative narcissism. Treatment was adapted from the Paris Psychosomatic School and was carried out by a psychodynamically trained female psychotherapist in Iran, supervised by an Iranian- born female psychoanalyst in the United States. Within the first 10 sessions, the patient regained speech and movement. Mentally processing the transference was encouraged and by session-23, the patient walked. We approached the patient as a closet feminist, one whose symptoms mimicked culturally acceptable ways of expressing her distress. Our aim was to recover the lost language that could connect her mind and body.
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