Psychoanalytic exploration of a visually impaired infant’s development
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A Psychoanalytic Exploration of a visually impaired infant's development through the observation of an visually impaired infant/caregiver dyad.
IRAS ID
336712
Contact name
Laura Hancock
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Robert Gordon University
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
n/a, n/a
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 31 days
Research summary
The study will use Psychoanalytic Infant Observation (PIO) to explore the development of a visually impaired infant, within the context of the infant/primary caregiver dyad, over 12 weeks. In psychoanalytic theory relational dynamics such as reciprocal gaze and sensory experience are used by the dyad to communicate, playing a vital role in developing a healthy mind, relationships and sense of self. PIO pays close attention to what is seen and felt by the observer, to make sense of relational processes within the infant/caregiver dyad. There is scarce research exploring the impact visual impairment has on the relational dynamics so important in healthy development. Research will promote understanding, so that support is more effective.
The study focuses on psychoanalytic concepts of projection, introjection and containment, observable in the early dyadic relationship. Projection locates feelings, experienced primarily as sensory data the infant cannot manage, into the caregiver (projection). The caregiver is impacted by the infant’s powerful feelings and is a container for them, processing and modifying the sensation into something meaningful for the infant. This is understood and taken back in by the infant (introjection). These interactions help infants develop understanding that powerful feelings can be survived, understood and thought about. Findings will therefore also enhance professional practice, contributing to understanding the impact of visual impairment on psychoanalytic concepts.
The participant infant will be up to 9 months old at the start of observations, with a diagnosed severe visual impairment. Observations will be weekly, in the family home, where the observer takes up a non intrusive, friendly stance. Recruitment will take place in NHS Fife, where the researcher has her training placement. Families with child protection or addiction issues will not be considered. Findings will be disseminated in relevant Journals, conferences and presentations.
REC name
London - Queen Square Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/PR/0527
Date of REC Opinion
10 Jun 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion