The Malignant Ambiguity of Incestuous Language

This eloquent paper takes on the difficult but therapeutically essential topic of the language of the incestuous encounter, and the ways in which what purports to contain attachment and meaning in fact attacks precisely those qualities. We believe that the discussion of this paper will offer rich opportunity for both clinical and theoretical exploration, and will provide a much needed opportunity for us to think together even while we cannot meet in person as yet.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

At the conclusion of this colloquium, participants will be able to:

1.    Describe the concept of malignant ambiguity of incestuous language

2.    Identify examples of malignant ambiguity

3.    Describe how incest attacks the survivor’s ability to create meaning out of human experience

4.    Compare different theories of the impact of incest on development

5.    Explain Amir’s two defensive positions stemming from incest

6.    Identify clinical examples of Amir’s two defensive positions

7.    Discuss the therapeutic value of identifying malignant ambiguity

8.    Explain the critical role of the therapist creating the necessary conditions for the analytic dialogue to emerge

CONTINUING EDUCATION

3 Credit Hours

NYSEDSW The International Association for Relational Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy (IARPP) is recognized by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers #SW-0202.

NYSEDP International Association for Relational Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy (IARPP) is recognized by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychoanalysts. #P-0037.

NYSEDMFT International Association for Relational Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy (IARPP) is recognized by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed marriage and family therapists. #MFT-0070.

This program is Approved by the National Association of Social Workers (Approval # 886702092-3978) for 3 continuing education contact hours.

APA CEs and NYSED credits for psychologists are available for this colloquium through our partners CEUnits.com. You do not need to do anything else other than submit your test and evaluation through us.