Foreclosure (psychoanalysis)
Foreclosure (Psychoanalysis)
Foreclosure (pronounced: /fɔːrˈkloʊʒər/) is a term used in psychoanalysis to describe a mechanism of defense where a person is said to foreclose, or shut out, the possibility of thinking about or experiencing certain feelings or ideas. The term was first introduced by Jacques Lacan, a French psychoanalyst and psychiatrist.
Etymology
The term 'foreclosure' is derived from the French word 'forclusion', which was used by Lacan to describe a specific type of repression in the psychic realm. The word 'forclusion' itself is a legal term in French law, referring to the barring of a claim due to the passage of time or other reasons.
Concept
In Lacan's psychoanalytic theory, foreclosure is a mechanism that occurs during the mirror stage, a phase in a child's development when they begin to establish a sense of self. If this process is interrupted or fails, the child may foreclose on certain aspects of their identity, leading to a failure to integrate these aspects into their sense of self.
Foreclosure is different from repression, another defense mechanism. While repression involves pushing unacceptable desires or thoughts into the unconscious, foreclosure involves completely shutting out these thoughts or desires, so they never become part of the person's conscious awareness.
Related Terms
- Mirror stage: A concept in Lacanian psychoanalysis that refers to the stage of development where a child recognizes their image in a mirror as an extension of themselves.
- Defense mechanism: A psychological strategy used by the mind to cope with reality and maintain self-image.
- Repression: A psychological defense mechanism where distressing thoughts, memories, or impulses that may give rise to anxiety are pushed into the unconscious.
- Identity: The qualities, beliefs, personality, looks and/or expressions that make a person (self-identity) or group (particular social category or social group).
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Foreclosure (psychoanalysis)
- Wikipedia's article - Foreclosure (psychoanalysis)
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