Abstract

This study delves into the modern attachment theory of A. Schore and the modern psychoanalysis of P. Fonagy, focusing on theoretical concepts that elucidate early human development, their neurobiological substrates, and their potential applications in treatment. First, a comparison is drawn between Schore’s neurobiologically expanded theory and Fonagy’s mentalization based theory. Second, the neural substrates of ‘mentalization’ and ‘right brain-right brain communication’ are explained. Lastly, the psychopathological pathway of attachment trauma is introduced. Attachment experiences, whether secure or insecure, become indelibly imprinted in an infant’s developing malleable brain. Infants subjected to attachment trauma, such as abuse or neglect, face an elevated likelihood of developing disorganized attachment neural circuits, which may contribute to vulnerability to dissociation. Cumulative experiences of this may lead to the characterological expression of borderline phenomena. The psychopathological pathway ‘attachment trauma-type D insecure attachment-dissociative tendency-borderline personality pattern’ emerges as a focal point for treatment consideration.