Self-disclosure or self presence?

The issue of self-disclosure reflects an interest in allowing the analyst to be present in the analytic situation in a way previously prohibited, as a fully participating subject. The authors develop the concept of the full-fledged communicational context as a way of allowing for, or even requiring, some form of voluntary self-disclosure. Anonymity is examined in the light of its claim to foster patient self-revelation. The authors maintain that such a claim is seriously flawed. Their examination of the concept of analytic objectivity located its foundation in the intersubjective field; therefore, the claim that objectivity is fostered by interpersonal distancing and anonymity is suspect. Further, they assert that asymmetry in the analytic dyad, although unavoidable in many respects, could be significantly reduced, with beneficial effects for both analyst and patient.