The Relevance of Drive and Relational Theories in the Context of Homosexuality and Masochism: A Case Study

Abstract

This paper discusses the use of psychodynamic approaches in the
treatment of paraphilias. The paper will demonstrate the use of drive
and relational structure theories as to the application to a
psychotherapy case with a client in his 30's who is of mixed descent both
Indian and White. The paper will review how both the drive and
relational structures were utilized in the case, how it has impacted the
treatment, and how it has impacted the life of the client. The outcome of
the case resulted in a client who was better able to understand his
relational patterns and how the paraphilia was related to his history. He
reports being less disturbed by the fantasies and has also changed his
behaviors. The paper will provide recommendations for clinicians
considering a psychodynamic approach in the treatment of paraphilias.