ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a critique of relational psychoanalysis at this juncture in time, when it has established itself as a major force in psychoanalytic theorizing and practice, but has not yet consolidated its mature identification. Not wanting to be repetitive with criticisms that have already been written, this chapter presents my own assessments, large, small and hopelessly petty. The chapter makes several pleas – a plea for less hubris, a plea for more lucidity, a plea for less co-construction and a plea for the correct use of the concept of scientific validity. In regard to assuring the vitality of relational psychoanalysis as we move into the future, the chapter calls for more advancement of younger colleagues and the inclusion of other disciplines under the relational tent. Where do we go from here is a plaint heard repeatedly from colleagues, many of whom have felt there is nothing new under the relational sun. It is conjectured that our future will be secured as we join forces with other disciplines, such as neuropsychology, disciplines whose recent advances in methodology are heralding exciting findings ripe for integration with relational psychoanalysis.
