Dixon, Agnieszka (2023) The Role of Early Trauma in the Formation of Belief in Reptilian Conspiracy Theories: A Psychoanalytic Perspective. British Journal of Psychotherapy . ISSN Print ISSN: 0265-9883 Online ISSN: 1752-0118

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Abstract

This paper investigates whether conspiracy theories arising during the COVID-19 pandemic are linked to early trauma or a specific organization of the mind. Using the Reptilian conspiracy theory as an example, the paper proposes that belief in conspiracy theories can activate unresolved memories of trauma and serve as a mediator between the psyche and intrusive content. Classic psychoanalytic concepts, as well as more modern ideas from Britton and Steiner, are explored to understand the role of early trauma and inner object relations dynamics in the development of Belief in Reptilian Conspiracy Theories (BiCT). The concept of après-coup is introduced to explain how newer responses to familiar psychic experiences may shape beliefs in conspiracies. Additionally, the paper proposes that belief in conspiracy theories can function as a psychic retreat. Two clinical cases are presented to illustrate these ideas while maintaining anonymity.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Psychoanalytic theory, Psychic retreat, Overvalued ideas, Conspiracy theories, Reptilian conspiracy
Subjects:	Human Psychological Processes > Early Experiences Psychological Therapies, Psychiatry, Counselling > Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Psychological Therapies, Psychiatry, Counselling > Patient/Therapist Interaction
Department/People:	Adult and Forensic Services
URI:	https://repository.tavistockandportman.ac.uk/id/eprint/2823

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