University of Michigan Program on Neuro-Psychoanalytic Research

During this past year our research has advanced along two lines: (1) further exploring the nature of unconscious processes, and (2) providing an experimental basis for the theory of primary-and secondary-process mentation. With respect to the first line of research, an article, authored by Snodgrass and Shevrin, that fully addresses current issues in cognitive research on unconscious processes will shortly be appearing in Perception and Psychophysics. The paper will have commentaries, among others, by Holender, one of the major critics of subliminal research. With respect to the second point, in a series of experiments Brakel, Shevrin, and other members of our research group have tested three hypotheses drawn from primary process theory. The experimental results supported the hypotheses that primary process mentation prevails: (1) in unconscious processing, (2) in very young children, and (3) in states of anxiety.

We are also pleased to have with us this year Dr. Ariane Bazan from the Neuro-Psychoanalysis Program at the University of Ghent. She is collaborating with us on research dealing with unconscious lexical processing, an interest she brings with her.