Complexity theory is recognised as the New Science that conceptualises the universe as a system of communicating systems. As such, everything in the universe is better understood by exploring the dynamic, nonlinear relationships between the parts that make up the whole. Psychoanalytic Complexity Theory provides a new, but familiar contribution to contemporary psychoanalytic theory and practice.
By examining the case of ‘Paul’, this presentation sketches out how complexity thinking provides a lens for recognising, reflecting upon, and responding to victims and perpetrators of child sexual abuse at both the individual-therapeutic and societal levels. As such, it has radical implications for social change that are founded on the inalienable human rights of children to be protected, and of perpetrators to be treated with dignity – all being persons of worth. As a part of the system, we are all a part of what happens in it. We therefore not only have a moral obligation to act wisely, but our just actions offer promise (but cannot guarantee) a safer and healthier community.