Heinz Kohut

Heinz Kohut was a prominent psychoanalyst known for his work in self psychology, a branch of psychological theory. He emphasized the importance of the self in personality development and mental health, arguing that a person's sense of identity and self-worth is shaped by their relationships, particularly with caregivers. Kohut introduced concepts like "selfobjects," which refer to people or experiences that support our self-esteem and sense of self. His theories have influenced therapy practices, shifting focus from purely unconscious conflicts to understanding emotional connections and the development of a cohesive self.