Wilfred Bion

1897–1979, United Kingdom

British psychoanalyst, pioneer of group work and theory of thinking. Developed concepts of container-contained and alpha function.

Books

  • Experiences in Groups (1961)

    Bion describes the unconscious dynamics of groups, identifying three basic assumptions: dependence, fight-flight, and pairing.

  • Learning from Experience (1962)

    Bion develops his theory of thinking, introducing the alpha function that transforms raw sensory impressions into thinkable elements.