A RE-EXAMINATION OF THE PHOBIC SYMPTOM AND OF SYMBOLISM IN PSYCHOPATHOLOGY
SILVANO ARIETI M.D.
Phobias are seen as expression of the general psychopathologic phenomenon of concretization. The fears are concrete representations of more abstract anxiety-provoking situations and relationships.
Phobias have certain characteristics, like dehumanization of the phobogenic object, alteration of the emotional status, retention of active role and of reality test, which can be correlated.
Symbolism in psychopathology presents some characteristics, like concentration on signals and formation of abritrary classes, which differ from those of normal symbolism.
