The Depressive Position

The depressive position is a psychological concept describing a stage in early emotional development, often associated with the work of Melanie Klein. It refers to a phase where a person begins to realize that people and objects have both good and bad qualities, leading to feelings of guilt and concern about harming loved ones. During this stage, individuals may experience anxiety about their actions and feel a desire to repair relationships. Recognizing this duality helps develop empathy, object constancy, and healthier emotional responses. It’s a normal part of psychological growth that fosters deeper understanding of complex human relationships.