Selfobjects

Selfobjects is a concept developed by psychoanalyst Heinz Kohut to describe individuals or things that an ego utilizes to perform a function that is not yet fully developed within the self. These external resources help to regulate affect, maintain self-esteem, and provide a sense of self-cohesion. In essence, a selfobject is someone or something that makes the self feel complete, admired, or understood.

Examples of selfobjects can include parents, partners, therapists, or even cherished possessions or activities. A parent might act as a mirroring selfobject for a child, reflecting back positive affirmations that help the child develop a healthy sense of self-worth. A friend might serve as an idealizing selfobject, offering a role model with whom the individual can identify. Similarly, a therapist can function as an alter-ego selfobject, providing a consistent, empathetic presence that helps the individual integrate fragmented aspects of their personality.

The concept of selfobjects is central to Kohut's self psychology. He posited that deficits in the development of the self, often stemming from early childhood experiences where selfobjects were inadequate or unresponsive, can lead to various psychological difficulties. Through therapeutic relationships, individuals can experience "transmuting internalizations," where the functions previously provided by external selfobjects are gradually integrated into the individual's own psychological structure, leading to greater autonomy and psychological well-being.