Presenter: Collin McFadden
Discussant: Terry Hanson

Sadomasochistic processes appear to be inherent and universal dynamics within object relations. What is commonly referred to as “sadomasochism,” “S & M,” or “SM” in popular culture usually refers to a system of behaviors with sensual and/or emotional feelings often linked to a sexual encounter, but the roots of these dynamics appear to run deeper and wider within the psyche of each individual. In this Saturday Dialogue, I will explore the internal and external world of sadomasochism by recounting and remembering my work with an individual with particularly intense and visible sadomasochistic processes. Much of the exploration will focus on the ways in which sadomasochistic processes presented themselves in our evolving relationship – including the individual’s dreams, fantasies, and behaviors, and my dreams, fantasies, and behaviors. The aim of this dialogue is to create internal space to carefully think about the sadomasochistic dimension of human experience.