Primary capacities of Contact and Pleasure

Abstract

This article opens a series of four publications designed to initiate a discussion of the author's proposed refinement of the list, definitions, and diagnostic criteria of primary actual capacities postulated by Nossrat Peseschkian, in accordance with recent developments in psychodynamic theory and practice. This first article addresses capacities of contact and pleasure, offering a deeper integrative understanding of related psychodynamics of motivations, cognitions, behaviours, and relationships. Specification of diagnostic criteria provides therapists with a practical tool for more accurate and objective clinical assessment, personalised interventions, development of self-help tools, and further research.