Regression in the field of psychoanalysis can be approached from two different perspectives: from behavior and from its use as therapy. According to the founder of psychoanalysis himself, Sigmund Freud, regression is a defense mechanism that consists in the retreat of the ego to an earlier stage of development. With this, it is possible to face events, thoughts or impulses that are unacceptable to the subject.
However, there are many authors who consider that the concept of regression should be abandoned and replaced by the study of the person as a whole since Freud’s theory of stages is based, a development model that is currently considered obsolete. However, it is still used today as a defense mechanism. Typical examples are the child who wet the bed again after having a sibling or after his parents separate, people who compulsively smoke in times of stress, or the young person who clings to his childhood stuffed animal when he goes to study in times of uncertainty. It is about the search for consolation, unconsciously evoking those vital moments (usually from childhood) in which another person solved problems, accompanied and provided security.
In this sense, mild regressions can be part of everyday life and help reduce stress levels. However, its recurrent and prolonged use can cause problems since it distances the person from the true reality. Hence, it is recommended to use another type of mechanism to obtain the same results such as meditation or sports.
Regressive therapy
For this same reason, regressive therapy is not recommended for everyone. In fact, it is not recommended for those with pathologies characterized by a loss of reality such as psychosis, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, among others, as it can chronify their symptoms.
Regressive therapy consists of a person reaching an altered state of consciousness so that he relives situations deeply hidden in his mind. In this way you can not only remember, but also relativize the dangers that that memory implies and control the emotion that triggers that repressed memory.
Benefits
- Helps overcome traumatic situations from the past
- Promotes personal growth
- Helps to recognize personal strengths and weaknesses
- Reduce fears and suffering
- Release blocked emotions
- Reduce stress
Risks
- They come from people who are not really professional therapists
- It can promote personality disorders
- It is not magic, nor the truth machine
- It can chronify mental health conditions
- It can induce false memories that lead the patient to make decisions with serious consequences
