The Great Mother-A Case of Pseudocyesis Illustrating the Power of Motherhood and Archetypes in Psychosis Remission.

Abstract

This case report highlights the potential role of the Jungian archetype in the case of pseudocyesis and its ability to alleviate psychic distress and symptoms of psychosis. In this article, we review the archetype concept in Jungian and biological terms. We then focus on the Great Mother archetype, which has been expressed in human culture since its beginning in various archetypal images and themes. Using these theories, we present a case of pseudocyesis to illustrate how the potential of pregnancy and the prospect of motherhood psychologically led to improvements in mental state, specifically psychotic symptoms.