The Role of Affect Regulation in a Case of Attempted Maternal-Filicide Suicide: Commentary on an act of Despair

A case of attempted maternal-filial suicide is discussed from the perspective of trauma, emotional regulation, & defense mechanisms. Case details which include childhood sexual abuse, observed parental violence, & emotional neglect allow for an illustration of the impact of childhood family experiences on adult intimacy & coping patterns. Domestic violence & the perception of protection are also explored. Emotional regulation in the experience of despair is approached from an object relations perspective. Based on this, implications for prevention & treatment are presented. (30 refs.) JA