The Regression in Psychoanalytic Clinic: A Comparative Study Between Klein and Winnicott

Abstract

This article examines the convergences and divergences between the ideas of Melanie Klein and D. W. Winnicott regarding the notion of regression in psychoanalytic practice. It is a theoretical-conceptual study based on an extensive literature review, supported by both prior knowledge of these theories and the authors’ clinical experience. For Klein, regression does not contribute positively to the analytical process, as the aim of treatment, according to her, is to secure the attainment and elaboration of the depressive position. In this context, regression would be a setback, taking the individual back to the schizoid-paranoid position. In contrast, for Winnicott, the purpose of regression is to revisit a stage of emotional development that could not be integrated due to environmental failures. By regressing, the individual has the opportunity to process and integrate this stage, this time in the presence of a specialised, reliable setting. To expand on our arguments, a clinical vignette is presented at the end to illustrate the themes discussed.