Behavior and Unconscious Fantasies of Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Utilizing projective tests and clinical interviews, the following characteristics seemed to differentiate 25 male rheumatoid arthritics from a control group of 20 patients with low back pain. The arthritic is likely to be an overtly calm individual who rarely expresses anger. Covertly, he seems to be containing a large amount of hostile feelings. Aiding him in his defense against hostile expression is his unique body image. As expressed through his Rorschach fantasies, the arthritic thinks of his body as a kind of hollow container filled with uncontrolled, fluid material and surrounded by a hard surface. Other psychological test findings and interview data suggest inconsistent parents supplied the original model for this body image. Father is described as having been inconsistent in his expression of anger and mother is remembered as an overtly moralistic, self-sacrificing person, but covertly a prohibiting and seductive figure. The arthritic attaches unusual significance to his body and is unconsciously desirous of exhibiting it. Overtly he denies his exhibitionistic desires and appears even shy and compliant.