Boundary Objects and Group Analysis: Between Psychoanalysis and Social Theory

Abstract

This paper explores possible connections between recent developments in social theory and group analysis, which could also have consequences for the conceptualization of group-analytic practice. Drawing on discussions from the sociology of scientific knowledge, specifically studies in sciences and technology, I offer an account and partial appropriation of some features of actor network theory. The concept of ‘boundary object’ is explored, through an attention to potential psychodynamic readings of these ideas and application to psychotherapeutic contexts. I also explore the interpretive potential of such frameworks to group-analytic approaches, in terms of offering analytic tools for the conceptualization of its practice within material, discursive and political contexts.