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IV. B. Example of Contemporary Inclusive Freudian perspective
Harold Blum In his study on “Symbolic Processes and Symbol Formation” Blum (1978) differentiates psychoanalytic ('Freudian') symbolism from other symbolic processes and from the concept of symbolism as commonly used and defined outside of psychoanalysis. “Psychoanalytic symbolism, seen as drive derivative, rooted in the primary process, is closer to an identity of perception, relatively restricted in content to disguised representations of the body self, infantile objects, birth and death, and associated infantile conflict and experience. Primary process symbolism differentiates from a phylogenetic protosymbolic complex, perhaps an undifferentiated semiotic function, prior to and in parallel with, the symbolic processes of the 'secondary process' and of the rational ego. Psychoanalytic symbols derive from unconscious conflicts and are related to repression. However, repression is not the only defense related to symbol formation. Displacement, which may be taken over by the primitive ego for its own purposes, is tied to symbol formation, and other primitive defenses of projection and introjection are probably also involved. Cognitive and semantic symbolism have separate developmental lines, and [Blum delineated] differences between psychoanalytic symbolism and linguistic symbolism […]. Psychoanalytic symbolism is independent of language and culture and has relatively universal forms, characteristics, and relationships to repression and archaic ego function. In contrast to cognitive and linguistic symbols which are essential to reality adaptation and ego growth, psychoanalytic symbolism does not have communicative or problem-solving functions. However, psychoanalytic symbolism may be employed in the service of sublimation and adaptation. [While in agreement with Freud ‘s allowance for] transitions between primary and secondary process and, therefore, for transitional symbolic processes and forms, [Blum emphasizes] the fundamental difference between the primary and secondary process […]. Psychoanalytic symbols are also overdetermined and may acquire personal or specific cultural meanings. Language is the major vehicle of psychoanalytic work and abstract communication. The development of advanced linguistic symbol systems and syntax, beginning with the novel two-word phrase in the second half of the second year is an evolutionary landmark, perhaps as significant as the child's first word. Language is a major dimension of object relations and a major ego resource for reflection, organization and mastery. The symbolic representation of the inner and outer world frees humans from the tyranny of being stimulus-bound” (Blum 1978, p. 470).
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