Afflictions Related to "Ideals" of Masculinity: Gremlins Within. Issue 2 (3rd April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Brady, Mary
• Is Part Of: Contemporary psychoanalysis. Volume 53:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 196
• Page End: 208
• Publication Date: 2017-04-03
• Subjects: masculinity -- masculine ideal -- masculinities -- splitting -- gender -- gender roles; 616.8917
• DOI: 10.1080/00107530.2017.1296734
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0010-7530

Abstract

Abstract: The author considers the "ideals" of masculinity for boys and men and the potential for these ideals (in their extremity) to contribute to rigid psychic states and splitting. Split-off parts can return through "gremlin-like" symptoms. These symptoms are subjectively experienced as trouble making, particularly in relation to being "big" or "macho, " physically or intellectually. Women who identify with such ideals are also vulnerable to these gremlin-like symptoms. A literary example is offered as well as personal reflections of two analysts, Donald Moss and the author.