ABSTRACT
Object-relations theory is a key component of FELT. This chapter defines the three-part Object-relational model used in FELT: the Self, the Object, and in-between. The chapter first explores theories of the development of the Self in early to late childhood, focusing on children ages 4–11. Specific attention is drawn to the norms and abnormalities of Self-development for children in this age range, and how abnormalities in the Self may present clinically. The chapter offers guidance for therapists on how FELT works to help children move toward normalization of the Self within typical developmental expectations. Next, the chapter moves on to describe Objects, and, similarly, how Objects and their internal representations shape child psychology over time. There is again a focus on clinical presentations suggesting unhealthy Object representations, with suggestions given for how therapists can work to correct unhealthy representations in treatment. Finally, the chapter concludes with a clinical discussion of the “in-between” – the relationship between Self and Objects and how these relationships drive conscious and unconscious behavioral and psychological functioning.
