This article describes a method for teaching writing based on a psychodynamic theoretical orientation. Previous conceptualizations for teaching writing from a dynamic perspective are critically reviewed, and an alternative method, the hermeneutic dialogue, is introduced. With this method, writing is taught through an interpretive exchange between instructor and student. Difficulties using this method are explored as are the similarities and differences with other teaching methods. Two examples of how this method might be used are presented.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
BelenkyM.ClinchyB.GoldbergerN.TaruleJ.1986). Women's ways of knowing: The development of self, voice and mind.New York: Basic.
2.
BerglerE. (1950). The writer and psychoanalysis.Garden City, NY: Doubleday.
3.
BoiceR. (1982). Teaching of writing in psychology: A review of sources. Teaching of Psychology, 9, 143–147.
4.
EagleM. (1984). Recent developments in psychoanalysis: A critical evaluation.Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.
5.
FreudS. (1959). Creative writers and day-dreaming. In StracheyJ. (Ed. and Trans.), The standard edition of the complete psychological works of Sigmund Freud (Vol. 9, pp. 141–153.). London: Hogarth. (Original work published 1907).
6.
FrommE. (1981). How to write a clinical paper: A brief communication. The International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 29, 5–9.
7.
HeckmanS. (1986). Hermeneutics and the sociology of knowledge.Notre Dame, IN: University of Notre Dame Press.
8.
MartinP. A. (1956). Note on inhibition of scientific productivity. Psychoanalytic Quarterly, 25, 415–417.
9.
McDermottR. (1977). Social relations as contexts for learning in school. Harvard Educational Review, 47, 198–213.
10.
RadomisliM. (1974). The paper-writing function of the ego. American Journal of Psychotherapy, 28, 278–281.