Changes

Heinz [[Hartmann ]] introduced the [[concepts ]] of primary and secondary ego [[autonomy ]] in 1939, and elaborated on [[them ]] in later writings (Hartmann, 1964). Within the framework of his description lies a [[conflict]]-free sphere of the ego. The [[notion ]] of "ego autonomy" implies that the ego and the id derive from a common [[matrix ]] where certain ego precursors prefigure functions destined to develop autonomously, independently of the [[instincts ]] and their vicissitudes.

Primary and secondary autonomy involve two sets of hypotheses, which together constitute the conflict-free ego sphere. Hartmann replaced [[Freud]]'s view that the ego grows out of the id with the hypothesis that both ego and id are derived from a common undifferentiated medium.

Related concepts are [[change ]] of function, neutralization, automatization, and ego interests. Hartmann focused especially on the autonomy of specific ego functions, and stressed that ego autonomy is relative, since both primary and secondarily [[autonomous ]] components can be drawn into conflict.

Prior to Hartmann, [[psychoanalytic ]] [[theory ]] held that all [[psychic ]] mechanisms and [[processes ]] result from the effects of the influence of [[life ]] [[experience ]] on the [[instinctual ]] [[drives]]. In primary autonomy, Hartmann [[identified ]] constitutional factors influencing ego [[development ]] in addition to instinctual drives and [[external ]] [[reality]]. The ego apparatuses of [[perception]], [[object ]] comprehension, [[intention]], [[thinking]], and [[language ]] capacity are all congenital, and are influenced by [[maturation ]] and learning. But they are neither derived from conflict, nor are they developmentally dependent on conflict. Even so, these [[structures ]] of primary autonomy can become caught up in conflict, resulting in [[inhibition ]] of their functioning. This formulation took some of the explanatory burden off the [[concept ]] of [[sublimation]].

In secondary autonomy, behaviors and attitudes which are initially associated with a conflict between [[drive ]] manifestations and defenses can become detached from their sources. This takes [[place ]] through a change of function, made possible by a de-sexualization and a de-aggressivization of the associated [[mental ]] [[energy]]. The degree of secondary autonomy is defined by how resistant the trend is to [[regressive ]] re-instinctualization. More generally, both the [[stability ]] of secondarily autonomous functions and ego strength can be defined by the capacity of the various ego functions to withstand [[regression ]] in the face of a focal conflict. Insufficient secondary autonomy interferes with the ability to [[bind ]] id strivings, and increases vulnerability to ego regression.

Secondary autonomy is seen to be established through the [[structure]]-building [[process ]] called automatization, by means of the change of function via neutralization. Automatisms are ego apparatuses, somatic and [[preconscious]], that are adaptive themselves, or are utilized by adaptive mechanisms.

David Rapaport (1951/1967; 1957/1967) saw a reciprocal [[relationship ]] between the ego's autonomy from the drives on the one hand, and from the [[environment ]] on the [[other]]. Autonomy from the drives is insured by the reality-related autonomous apparatuses, and from the environment by the endogenous drives.

Hartmann's formulations of ego autonomy have been highly influential in [[psychoanalysis]]. Most of his contributions stand, but serious questions have subsequently been raised [[about ]] the [[scientific ]] status and validity of energy transformations, which are part of the neutralization-deneutralization hypothesis.