TY  - JOUR
TI  - Back to basics II: How the research on attachment and reflective-self function is relevant for coaches and consultants today
AU  - de Haan, E.
AB  - Purpose: In this study the phenomenon of reflective-self function is explored in terms of its historical understanding – just as the phenomenon of transference was explored in terms of its historical understanding in an earlier instalment (De Haan, 2011). As will be shown, reflective-self function is not only demonstrably linked to secure attachment, it is increasingly held to be at the core of the process and outcome of helping conversations. Design/Methodology: This contribution offers a historical summary of the main breakthroughs in attachment research, showing how (in-)secure attachment can be measured reliably and how it can be linked to reflective-self function –  the capacity to mentalise. This capacity is further elucidated with the help of three examples from executive coaching and team coaching. Results: It is shown how reflective-self function is related to secure attachment, and how mentalising can be used to co-create meaning, insight and understanding with clients. Conclusions: Mentalising, as understood by reflective-self function, is a helpful way into awareness, insight and empathetic understanding. Coaches would do well to foster this function within themselves and their clients. 
IS  - 2
JO  - International Coaching Psychology Review
PY  - 2012
KW  - insight
KW  - empathy
KW  - coaching outcome
KW  - consulting
KW  - Reflective-self function
KW  - mentalisation
KW  - history of psychoanalysis and attachment.
UR  - shop.bps.org.uk/publications/publication-by-series/international-coaching-psychology-review/international-coaching-psychology-review-vol-7-no-2-september-2012.html
VL  - 7
LA  - English
ER  -