Psychodynamics of spirit possession among the Inuit.
Canadian journal of psychiatry. Revue canadienne de psychiatrie February 1, 1983 DOI: 10.1177/070674378302800112 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Case study Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 3 |
| Population | Individuals experiencing spirit possession |
| Citations | 7 |
| Key findings | Spirit possession in these cases represented culture-bound defense mechanisms and attempts at conflict resolution for unresolved psychodynamic conflicts. |
Abstract
Three cases of spirit possession were studied to determine common underlying psychodynamic factors. The spirits were believed to represent culture bound defense mechanisms, and attempts at problem solving in individuals suffering from unresolved conflicts. These being anomic anxiety, dependency, sexual identity and aggression. The symptoms, therefore, were considered to be attempts at conflict resolution. Furthermore the psychodynamic process is described as a transition phase in psychic development between externalization and internalization of intrapsychic distress or collective versus individual ego solutions to life stress. As such, therapy will be facilitated by knowledge of myths and customs and culturally significant methods of healing.