In The Spotlight and Very Special

If we consider the idea that this patient was videotaped and knew that this therapy was part of ongoing "research", might it be wise given all of this discussion about her reactions to being in the 'spotlight' , that the implications of being videotaped receive a bit more discussion- particularly because of the psychodynamics being discussed. She is indeed being treated in very special ways. While I am sure that both patient and therapist quickly lose awareness of the taping, is it ever really forgotten, and does it have an ongoing impact on the therapy that might not be so obvious? Did she ever make any references to this or to the research? This whole issue would seem very much tied into all of the discussion being shared about this case. Also, is there a third person conducting the taping and if so is she aware of this, and do issues of privacy and confidentionality represent another aspect. The dialogue between patient and therapist can, of course have its unconscious aspects as well. It is within that dialogue the potential meanings of the above issues are best explored. I do look forward to reading some of the actual dialogue this summer.

• Yes, Indeed! Sunshine in the Spotlight by Polly Bloomberg-Fretter, 4/24/98