The triangular communication of the small child in the family: an access to triadic intersubjectivity? Theoretical considerations and clinical cases

Over the last few decades, the concept of primary intersubjectivity has gained consensus among development scholars and clinicians. But a new challenge is being posed to our models by recent discoveries about the triangular skills of the very young child and his or her ability to communicate simultaneously with both parents. These discoveries raise the question of a collective form of intersubjectivity. The findings on the triangular competence of 3-4 month old children in interaction with father and mother in different contexts of the Lausanne trilogue play situation are reviewed and illustrated with a look at whether it is based on a dyadic or triangular programme and whether the conditions for a group form of primary intersubjectivity are met. The discussion focuses on the revisions that such findings require from intersubjectivity theory, development theory and clinical practice, leading us towards tri-personal psychology.