Encapsulation: expatriates inside a complex world

Abstract

The objective of this conceptual paper is to synthesise psychodynamics and paradox inherent in complex situations to investigate the cause and effects of identity shifts and self-organisation particularly apposite expatriation. The methodology used will be to find intersections and parallels among psychodynamic theories1 to demonstrate that inside the paradox of expatriation is other-organisation, which is basically defined as the unorganised becoming organised in ‘good’ or ‘bad’ ways and with formal and planned interventions. We will also see that self-organisation works with other-organisation to keep one safely ‘held’ between feelings of being isolated or engulfed. Whether real or imagined, perceptions of being isolated and engulfed lead to the confusion or pain of becoming encapsulated.