The use of Winnicott’s concept of transitional objects in bereavement practice

Abstract Working with young children, Donald Winnicott (1951) identified transitional objects as items which were both created and discovered by an infant for comfort, and to support the developmental necessity of separating from their primary caregiver. In adulthood, the keeping and holding of a physical object, for example a piece of jewellery owned by a loved one who has died, is frequently seen as supportive for bereaved people but is rarely named or conceptualised as a transitional object. Taking an object relations perspective, the aim of this review will be to consider research and literature within bereavement theory and practice in order to suggest how transitional objects can be conceptualised in grief work across all life stages. Examples from research and the authors own therapeutic practice will be shared in order to suggest ways in which the use of transitional objects can support therapeutic practice with bereaved people.