True Self vs. False self
도널드 위니컷(Donald Winnicott)의 참자아, 거짓자아 구분법
In his essay "Ego Distortion in terms of true self and false self," British psychoanalyst Donald Woods Winnicott explores the concept of the true self and the false self, and how they relate to ego development. According to Winnicott, the true self is the authentic, spontaneous, and creative part of an individual's personality, while the false self is a defensive structure that individuals develop to cope with the demands of the external world.
Winnicott argues that the true self is formed during infancy, through the process of maternal care. The infant initially experiences itself as an undifferentiated entity, and it is through the mother's holding and handling of the infant that the sense of self begins to emerge. The mother's attuned responses to the infant's needs create a sense of security and continuity, which allows the infant to feel that it has a separate existence.
As the child grows, it develops an increasing sense of autonomy and creativity, which is fostered by the mother's ability to provide a safe and supportive environment. This process is essential for the development of the true self, as it allows the child to experience a sense of agency and to develop a range of capacities for self-expression and exploration.
However, Winnicott argues that the development of the true self is not always smooth and straightforward. In some cases, the infant's needs are not adequately met, or the mother may be unable to provide a safe and supportive environment. In such situations, the child may develop a false self, which is a defensive structure that allows them to cope with the demands of the external world.
The false self is a facade that individuals present to others, which may be quite different from their true self. It is a survival mechanism that individuals develop to protect themselves from harm, but it can also lead to a sense of alienation and disconnection from their authentic selves. According to Winnicott, the false self can be particularly problematic when it becomes entrenched, and individuals become unable to access their true selves.
Winnicott argues that the goal of psychotherapy is to help individuals rediscover their true selves and to dismantle the false self. This involves creating a safe and supportive therapeutic environment, which allows individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment or rejection. Through this process, individuals can develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance, which allows them to reconnect with their true selves.
In conclusion, Winnicott's concept of the true self and false self provides a valuable framework for understanding ego development and the impact of early experiences on personality formation. By recognizing the importance of maternal care in the development of the true self and the role of the false self in coping with the external world, Winnicott offers insights into the challenges individuals face in accessing their authentic selves. Ultimately, Winnicott's work highlights the importance of creating safe and supportive environments for individuals to explore and express their true selves.
