Fairbairn's theory of personality

Fairbairn's theory of personality suggests that our inner life and behaviors are shaped by early relationships with caregivers. He believed that individuals develop internal "images" or mental models of themselves and others, which influence how they relate to the world. These internal models often arise from trying to manage feelings of neglect or conflict during childhood. Fairbairn emphasized that healthy personality development involves resolving these internal conflicts and forming balanced relationships, rather than just focusing on unconscious drives. Essentially, our personality is deeply connected to our early emotional experiences and the way we navigate those feelings.