Review of The psychotherapy of the self.

Reviews the book, The psychotherapy of the self by Hyman L. Muslin and Eduardo R. Val (see record 1987-98090-000). This book is written for mental health professionals. Its intention is to present criteria for psychopathology from a self-psychological viewpoint. Based on a differential diagnosis, a psychoanalytic treatment modality is suggested that is judged to be most suitable to the assessed psychopathology. This book offers excellent clinical material, presented in detail, with an ongoing commentary which illuminates the interviewer's interpretation of the data presented. The problems with the book do not lie in the clinical material presented. Its problems result from the way in which the material is organized and the theoretical claims that are stated or implied. A more controversial but equally important criticism of the book is the manner in which data collection and the relationship between therapist and client are conceptualized. The reviewer found the book to contain some major shortcomings. It is theoretically lacking, though clinically stimulating. A reader will find the book valuable for its clinical material and the manner in which this is presented. In addition, there are insights to be gained relating to the functioning of the therapist as he or she experientially participates in the process of psychotherapy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Review of Contexts of being: The intersubjective foundations of psychological life.

Reviews the book, Contexts of being: The intersubjective foundations of psychological life by Robert D. Stolorow and George E. Atwood (see record 1992-98615-000). In this book, the authors present a well-organized and systematic presentation of their intersubjective approach to psychotherapy. This book represents the culmination of at least the past thirteen years of Stolorow and Atwood's research program. They make good use of the limited space by addressing some of the most pivotal concepts in the field of psychotherapy. This work is likely to become a recognized contribution within the history of psychotherapy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Patients' rights.

Comments on T. S. Szasz's (see record 1983-05532-001) mention of slavery in proposing the idea of a "psychiatric will." The present author draws parallels between the rationale for the enslavement of Blacks and the rationale for involuntary commitment (vs patients' rights) of the mentally ill in the US. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)