Functions of Boredom

Abstract

Several functions of boredom, the implications for treatment, and some conceptual thoughts about boredom are discussed. Boredom as a defense against oral-erotic and oral-sadistic drives, and boredom as a traditional phase are illustrated in the case of Janice. Boredom as an indication of a developmental ego defect and a lack of differentiation between the me and the not-me are discussed in the case of Mary. The importance of the therapist's understanding of the function of boredom for a particular patient at a specific point in treatment is stressed.