Between guilt and silence

depression through Ferenczi’s ideas

Abstract

This article explores depression through Sándor Ferenczi’s trauma theory, focusing
on the identification with the aggressor. Using the clinical case of Fabiana, who experienced
emotional neglect in childhood, I analyze how the internalization of maternal criticism and
blaming contributed to the development of depressive states in adulthood. The concept of denial and the notion of introjection, compared to Abraham and  Torok’s, incorporation, help explain how Fabiana failed to symbolize her suffering, creating a psychic “crypt” where emotional pain was trapped, leading to a cycle of self-aggression and emotional disconnection.