The Origins of Envy in Psychoanalysis

In today's overly connected world, many patients and clients experience what they describe as "envy" which sometimes creates feelings of sadness and frustration. How can it not? When social media insists on imposing certain parameters of "happiness" such as mega boats, private jets and pristine islands in the middle of nowhere as well as perfect faces and muscular bodies. A mom might have given birth a week ago and somehow appears to have a better body than most super models- leaving the audience with a sense of agony and disbelief (and envy). So, where does envy come from? and what is important about it, if anything?  

Freudian Perspective

Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytical framework posits that envy originates in early childhood experiences and is intricately linked to the development of the self and interpersonal relationships. Freud suggested that envy is a natural part of the Oedipal complex, where a child experiences envy towards the same-sex parent due to their desire for the opposite-sex parent (Freud, 1923). This early manifestation of envy is crucial for understanding how this emotion shapes the individual's psyche and interpersonal dynamics.

Kleinian Perspective

Melanie Klein further developed the concept of envy, particularly in her work on object relations theory. Klein viewed envy as an innate and destructive force that arises in the early stages of life. According to Klein, envy is directed towards the "good object" – typically the mother – whose perceived abundance and ability to provide provoke the infant's envy (Klein, 1957). This early envy can distort the infant's perception of reality and lead to deep-seated feelings of inadequacy and hostility.

Lacanian Perspective

Jacques Lacan's interpretation of envy is rooted in his theory of the mirror stage, where the infant first identifies with their reflection and begins to develop a sense of self. Lacan posited that envy is linked to the desire to possess what the other has, reflecting a fundamental lack within the self (Lacan, 1949). This lack, or "manque," drives the individual's desires and shapes their interactions with others.

Manifestations of Envy

Envy can manifest in various ways, impacting both the individual's internal world and their external relationships. These manifestations can provide valuable insights into the underlying psychological conflicts and unresolved issues.

Internal Manifestations

Internally, envy can lead to feelings of inadequacy, inferiority, and self-doubt. These emotions often stem from comparing oneself to others and perceiving oneself as lacking in some way. The internal struggle with envy can also lead to self-sabotage, where the individual undermines their own efforts due to an unconscious fear of success or a belief that they do not deserve to achieve what others have (Segal, 1973).

External Manifestations

Externally, envy can manifest in hostile or competitive behaviors towards others. This can include devaluing the achievements of others, spreading gossip or rumors, or engaging in passive-aggressive actions. These behaviors are often attempts to diminish the perceived superiority of others and to mitigate the envious individual's feelings of inadequacy (Klein, 1957).

Self-Revelations Prompted by Envy

Envy, when examined through a psychoanalytical lens, can reveal significant aspects of the self that might otherwise remain hidden. By exploring the roots and manifestations of envy, individuals can gain deeper insights into their inner world and work towards resolving underlying conflicts.

Recognition of Unresolved Conflicts

One of the primary revelations that envy can provide is the recognition of unresolved conflicts and unmet needs from early childhood. By tracing the origins of envy, individuals can identify patterns in their relationships and behaviors that stem from these early experiences (Freud, 1923). This recognition is the first step towards addressing and resolving these conflicts.

Understanding of Self-Perception

Envy also offers insights into an individual's self-perception and self-worth. Feelings of envy often arise from a sense of lacking or inadequacy, which can be rooted in negative self-beliefs. By examining these feelings, individuals can challenge and reframe their self-perception, fostering a healthier and more positive self-image (Lacan, 1949).

Pathway to Personal Growth

Ultimately, envy can serve as a catalyst for personal growth and self-improvement. By acknowledging and understanding their envy, individuals can use this emotion as a motivator to address their own shortcomings and strive towards their goals. This process involves transforming envy from a destructive force into a constructive one, promoting self-awareness and emotional maturity (Segal, 1973).

Conclusion

Envy, from a psychoanalytical perspective, is a complex emotion that can reveal profound truths about the self. Through the works of Freud, Klein, and Lacan, we understand that envy is deeply rooted in early childhood experiences and shapes our self-perception and interactions with others. By examining the origins, manifestations, and self-revelations of envy, individuals can gain valuable insights into their inner world, address unresolved conflicts, and foster personal growth. Understanding envy is not only crucial for personal development but also for cultivating healthier and more fulfilling relationships. Next time you feel envy, think of those you love, the things you have (or don't have) and at your accomplishments -however small you think these may be. Put your energy in you and turn the emotion or feeling into something good. 

References

• Freud, S. (1923). The Ego and the Id. The Standard Edition of the Complete Psychological Works of Sigmund Freud, Volume XIX (1923-1925).
• Klein, M. (1957). Envy and Gratitude: A Study of Unconscious Sources. The Writings of Melanie Klein, Volume III.
• Lacan, J. (1949). The Mirror Stage as Formative of the Function of the I. Écrits: A Selection.
• Segal, H. (1973). Introduction to the Work of Melanie Klein. Hogarth Press.