ESP-4224

Published

2025-11-28

Issue

Vol. 10 No. 11 (2025): published

Section

Research Articles

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Copyright (c) 2025 Amos En Zhe Lian, Shubashini Mathialagan

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How to Cite

Amos En Zhe Lian, & Shubashini Mathialagan. (2025). An Object-relations conceptual framework utilising Fairbairn and Masterson’s Theories: A Malaysian case study on relational trauma. Environment and Social Psychology, 10(11), ESP-4224. https://doi.org/10.59429/esp.v10i11.4224

An Object-relations conceptual framework utilising Fairbairn and Masterson's Theories: A Malaysian case study on relational trauma

Amos En Zhe Lian

Faculty of Social Sciences, Raffles University, G-05, Medini 7, Jalan Medini Sentral 5, Bandar Medini Iskandar Malaysia, Iskandar Puteri, Johor Bahru, Johor, 79250, Malaysia; Kepha Institute, Columbia International University, 7435 Monticello Rd, Columbia, SC 29203, United States

Shubashini Mathialagan

Faculty of Social Sciences, Raffles University, G-05, Medini 7, Jalan Medini Sentral 5, Bandar Medini Iskandar Malaysia, Iskandar Puteri, Johor Bahru, Johor, 79250, Malaysia


DOI: https://doi.org/10.59429/esp.v10i11.4224


Keywords: Object-Relations; Case Study; Relational Trauma; Fairbairn; Masterson

Abstract

This case study demonstrates the utility of the object-relations model in conceptualising and treating complex relational trauma, shifting the analytic perspective from an isolated individual psyche to a relational viewpoint. The paper first employs Fairbairn's structural theory of mind to understand the internal organisation of object-relations structures, specifically focusing on the splitting of the ego into traumatised and defensive aspects. It then integrates Masterson's self-triad theory as a practical clinical framework for working through these traumatic experiences. Masterson's model allows the clinician to accurately conceptualise the client’s internal state, thereby determining the dynamic treatment strategy and enabling precise modulation between supportive and expressive interventions based on the client’s position within the triad. A detailed case study of a 30-year-old Malaysian adult, who underwent five years of individual psychotherapy for severe relational trauma, is presented to illustrate the clinical efficacy and robust conceptual potential of employing this integrated object-relations model.

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