A Guntripian Psychoanalytic Description of the Schizoid State of Being

In this chapter, a critical psychoanalytic approach is presented to Guntrip’s concept of the Schizoid State of Being. Moving beyond the Freudian confines of the narcissistic transferences, Guntrip approached the ‘schizoid problem’ through both the theories of Winnicott and Fairbairn, developing a psychoanalytic theory of those who feel cut off, apart, different, and unable to become involved in any real relationship. This chapter explores the psychoanalytic thinking of Guntrip concerning the ‘schizoid problem’ through the schizoid relationship with external reality, differentiating the schizoid from the depressive position, describing the various adaptations the schizoid relies upon to deal with love turned hungry (withdrawnness, detachment, isolation, etc.), understanding the In-Out program, and more.