Examining clinical practice and interpretation, especially in the light of the theory of maturation, Winnicott posits that: 1. the use of interpretation, in its traditional meaning, that is to say, as related to repressed contents, should be limited to individuals who already have a self and a personal psychic reality and 2. the role, use and meaning of interpretation should be redescribed as part of the therapeutic procedure, with awareness of its inherent risks.
Winnicott; interpretation; diagnosis; psychosis