You can only see well if you use your heart

摘要

The author describes the ethical foundations of the observation method introduced by Esther Bick: a subjective and humanistic observation based on respect for individuality. The observational field includes data about the emotional situation, registered through the feeling of the observer. The analysis of material about the too-early weaning of a baby at one month is presented in two ways: the first objective, and then the felt emotional aspects, enabling the observer to understand the meaning of the events for the baby. The development of a containing function and empathy are illustrated in a brief clinical scenario from the material of an adult patient, showing the interest of infant observation for the training of analysts.