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We have been discussing the question of whether the psychoanalysts in our group should do the diagnostic assessment themselves, in our research project on the deep psychology of the neglect syndrome (described in a previous bulletin). An argument in favor of this approach is the possibility of gaining access to the special situation of each particular patient, and learning at this early stage something about the defense mechanisms. This could also facilitate transfer into a regular psychotherapeutic setting, as the symptom in itself contradicts every notion of a need for therapy. An argument against such a procedure is a methodological one: testing and treatment should be carried out separately in order to provide objective and comparable data. This discussion is still going on.
Meanwhile, a member of our group (Dr. Rothe) is going to see a 73-year-old woman with neglect. Chances are good that this will become a regular treatment as the motivation of the patient is good. Although the neglect is obvious, she nevertheless complains about loss of quality of life, and thus is likely to accept psychotherapy.
Dr. Roeckerath reported on the foundation of the International Neuro-Psychoanalysis Society at the First Neuro-Psychoanalytic Congress in London, July 21-23, 2000. He was confirmed by the group as its representative to the Society.
Antonio Damasio's remark at the Congress that psychoanalysis hardly plays a role in the neurosciences made us think about how we, as analysts, best could contribute to the exchange with the neurosciences. Oliver Sacks's notion of “imaginative narratives,” as an appropriate form in which to report our case studies, seemed a possible way to go. The group will therefore continue its efforts to obtain as many patients as possible for treatment, and then we may eventually come forth with a research proposal for fundraising. Contact has been made with another rehabilitation hospital for brain-damaged patients, among them many with neglect symptoms.