Psychodynamics of spirit possession among the Inuit.
Canadian journal of psychiatry. Revue canadienne de psychiatrie February 1, 1983 A Seltzer 7 citations
Three cases of spirit possession were examined for shared psychodynamic roots. The spirits appeared to function as culture-bound defense mechanisms and problem-solving efforts in people with unresolved conflicts around anomic anxiety, dependency, sexual identity, and aggression. Symptoms were interpreted as attempts at conflict resolution. The psychodynamic process is described as a transitional phase in psychic development, between externalizing and internalizing intrapsychic distress, and between collective and individual ego solutions to life stress. Therapy is aided by understanding myths, customs, and culturally significant healing methods.