Psychodynamics and their associated myths and fantasies in the contemporary American right wing. (16th April 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nelson, Joshua
• Other Names: Cohen Shuki J. guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: International journal of applied psychoanalytic studies. Volume 16:Number 4(2019)
• Page Start: 229
• Page End: 243
• Publication Date: 2019-04-16
• Subjects: American right wing -- myths and fantasies -- narcissism -- paranoia -- trauma and loss -- Trump; Psychoanalysis -- Periodicals; Psychoanalysis -- Periodicals; Psychanalyse -- Périodiques; Psychanalyse; Périodique électronique (Descripteur de forme); Ressource Internet (Descripteur de forme); 150.195
• DOI: 10.1002/aps.1609
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1742-3341

Abstract

Abstract: The contemporary American right wing is predominantly composed of White working‐class and wealthier White Americans who, according to recent research, report profound fears of cultural displacement and the loss of American exceptionalism. This group's dynamics and processes, the psychologies of its leader, Donald Trump, and component members, and its associated versions of certain foundational American myths and fantasies contain significant elements of both narcissism and paranoia. These myths include that of America being a divine "City Upon a Hill, " the story of the idyllic, pre‐Civil War "Old South, " and the Horatio Alger myth of "bootstrapping" up the economic ladder. These idealized, fantasied narratives are manipulated and exploited by those in positions of power, thus exacerbating members' fear, shame, and rage. Increased understanding of these psychological phenomena can aid psychoanalysts in consulting about and, when possible, engaging directly with these individuals, especially when facing significant psychological, sociocultural, and political obstacles.