February 2025: “The Body Present/The Body Absent in Psychoanalytic Theory: A Contemporary Perspective”

February 2025: “The Body Present/The Body Absent in Psychoanalytic Theory: A Contemporary Perspective” Presented by: Joseph Aguayo, PhD, FIPA In this presentation, Joseph Aguayo explores the transition from the conceptual frameworks established by Freud and Klein, particularly their differing views on the sexual and pathological body, to more contemporary perspectives. He focuses on the contributions of Thomas Ogden and Giuseppe Civitarese, specifically Ogden’s concept of the “autistic-contiguous position” and Civitarese’s notion of “somatic reverie.” These contemporary approaches emphasize the role of normal or ordinary sensory experiences, offering a more comprehensive understanding of how somatic experiences shape the analyst's bodily-centered listening when engaging with patients. A case example from Aguayo's work illustrating somatic reverie is included in this presentation. Learning Objectives: Upon completing this scientific meeting, participants will be able to: 1. Distinguish between Freud's and Klein's conceptualizations of the sexual and pathological body, highlighting their unique theoretical perspectives. 2. Understand Ogden’s conception of the “autistic-contiguous position” and describe how it signifies a shift from understanding the pathological body to emphasizing normal sensory experiences. 3. Apply Civitarese’s concept of “somatic reverie” to enhance the analytic relationship and deepen bodily-centered listening in clinical practice.