The body as a transitional object in bulimia

Abstract

In this paper we attempt to explore the unique meaning of the body for the bulimic patient. In contrast with Selvini-Palazzlis's view of the body as a persecutory object in anorexia nervosa, we suggest that a more primitive meaning or function underlies the role of the body in bulimia. Specifically the body becomes a transitional object, a vehicle for the representing of the maternal object and then the repudiation of her. A synthesis of the cognitive and object relations lines of development is presented to elucidate this role.