부산대학교 도서관

This article describes typologies of couples in high-conflict divorces and explores their dynamics through the prism of family systems and British object relations theories. The article argues that couples embroiled in high-conflict divorce often have primitive object relations. They tend to use splitting and projection processes and find it difficult to tolerate ambivalence or disagreement. Fear of the ex-spouse's retaliation is often accompanied by fear of their own destructiveness and by a wish to make reparation. However, it seems that reparation attempts in primitive object relations rarely achieve reconciliation. A case study demonstrates the complicated dynamics of these couples. Clinical recommendations are made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]