ABSTRACT
This chapter gives a definition of the fetish based on its characteristic lustful thing presentation sensory emotional experience structure. It describes its uses on a continuum of ego function and dysfunction, from most pleasurable to required, from accessory to substitutive, from variation to stereotypy, and from neurotic to near psychotic to psychotic. There are also ego function continuums of reality testing, integration and dissociation, and, most importantly, the relationship of the real self to the real other. The chapter describes these fetish object relations. It shows the use of the fetish object within the real relationship and demonstrates its object relations as separate from the whole object but related to the whole object relationship. It redefines the word “perversion” and describes its proper and improper use. The difference between fetish and perversion is described. The use of the fetish as a path around a sexual inhibition is described. There are multiple clinical examples.
