ABSTRACT
It is indeed a privilege to be asked to contribute to the examination of envy, which has received so little attention in the expanding exploration of the psychology of the self. The perspective of self psychology posits that envy, rather than arising from instinctual drives, follows from a narcissistic injury, diminished self-esteem, and disruption of the stability of the self. This chapter explores envy as it emerges in small groups with the emphasis on understanding the therapeutic processes from a self psychological perspective. The self psychologically informed therapist understands the patient's psychopathology as the best solution for that individual whose need for a responsive, empathic self-object environment has been flawed and has inhibited growth. The study of the vicissitudes of the self and its restitutive efforts following injury may enable to use experiences for the patients' and group's benefit.
