ABSTRACT
Physical illness, maternal depression and loss of his father had an impact on the development of fetishistic behaviour in an older teenage boy. His nappy wearing and his obsession with beautiful but emotionless women had their roots in a lonely, painful childhood. Helping him see an alive and interested object led to progress and the gradual growth of a self with possibilities, and the ability to begin to identify with a supportive and helpful stepfather. The theory on fetishism is reviewed and the texts that were most useful in the work.
