Alexithymia Dimensions as Parenting Challenges

The purpose of this chapter is to relate the construct of alexithymia (Sifneos, 1973)with the relational competence theory (L'Abate, 1983), and in particular the ERAAwC model. To understand the construct of alexithymia and explain it in light of the relational competence theory, it is crucial to focus one’s attention on the role and management of emotions and affections in people’s lives: according to the ERAAwC model, the start of our entering into relation with others is linked to how each of us feel, accepts or avoids emotions in response to what is happening to us internally or externally. In this sense, alexithymia, i.e. the “without words to express feelings” may be seen as an avoidance of feelings and emotions within the relational context. In order to better understand these aspects, this work focuses on a context – that of a family with a disabled child – where feelings and emotions are highly strained in order to understand how “feelings” are managed, accepted or avoided in a specific relational context.