Institutions welcome the intrapsychic processes of adolescents, one of which is the appropriation of a private space, by changing the usual supports, which leads the youngsters and the professionals to the dynamic co-creation of differentiated space and boundaries. After recalling the symbolism of a space of one’s own in adolescence, the author presents difficulties relating to the group and certain defense mechanisms used, which are also found in classic, as well as specialized, institutions.

Adolescence, 2025, 43, 2, 337-349.