Object Relations Throughout The Lifespan And The Incorporation Of Art Therapy

ABSTRACT: In an attempt to understand the transitional object, it is important to refer to the Object Relations Theory (OR), established by psychologists using the psychoanalytic framework, built upon psychodynamic theory. This research reflects upon the findings of the OR, and the establishment of the transitional object, and its uses. Drawing upon historical content and modern case studies, this research poses the idea that transitional objects are used throughout the lifespan and are successful coping devices from infancy to childhood, and adulthood. Transitional objects have been found to assist in the relief of anxiety and the negative impacts of traumatic events. Art therapy has been used to both create objects of transition and in turn used as a therapeutic object of transition. This research evaluates the prominence of transitional objects throughout the lifespan, and identifies if the use of transitional objects is related to anxiety or coping. This research evaluates how art therapy may be used to both create transitional objects, and how it may be used as a transitional process.