ABSTRACT

We might say that there exists a continuum extending from dream areas to non-dream areas, something like a spectrum of colours. This continuum illustrates how one can locate mental functioning in terms of the capacity for mentalization and symbolisation. Oscillations in the continuum indicate how this capacity is broadened and how it is attacked, and also shows movements between beta-elements <-> alpha-elements and PS <-> D. 1 At one extreme are ideal areas of whole symbolisation. Next, one can see areas where symbols have less capacity for meaning and connection. Then come symbols that have degenerated in varying degrees. Finally, fragile connections under constant attack lead on to areas where the symbolisation is precarious or non-existent, with the predominance of non-symbolised areas. Permeating this continuum are areas with symbolic equations (Segal, 1957), where symbol and symbolised run together, and areas with apparent symbolisation, but where the patient’s capacity for abstraction is limited. Rigid organisations (Brown, 2005) with apparently intelligible beta-elements (Sandler, 1997) may simulate dreams, but they are false dreams (Cassorla, 2009a) that mask non-dreams. Deformed or fractured symbols mix in with split mental functions and are described as bizarre situations, as we will see in the clinical case of Paul. Discharges into acts 100should not be confused with acts that are thought about. All elements in this continuum may be expressed at the same time. We therefore move from more or less symbolic areas to areas that are psychotic and traumatised in varying degrees with representation through images that is deficient. In traumatised patients and those with borderline conditions and confused functioning, dreams and different types of non-dreams may alternate rapidly or appear mixed, thus confusing the analyst. 2