A Short Introduction to Psychoanalysis

by Jane Milton

`As someone who is often engaged in trying to clarify psychoanalytic ideas for others (and for myself) I found this book inspiring and useful in many ways but perhaps most notably in its skilful re-visiting and articulation of what happens in psychoanalysis and why it is helpful' - Journal Child Psychotherapy `… well constructed and easily digested book' - Mental Health Nursing `This well-written and understandable book will be useful to a cross-section of professional as well as the general-public'- Community Care `This is quite simply the best introduction to psychoanalysis ever written. It is uncluttered yet the interested reader will find most of what they need to know about what psychoanalysis is and is not, with ample links connecting to where to find the rest. The book is exceptionally accessible, balanced and entertaining. There is no need to search any longer as to what to recommend to anyone who wants to orient themselves around this complex field'- Peter Fonagy, Freud Memorial Professor of Psychoanalysis, University College, London and Chief Executive, Anna Freud Centre, London A Short Introduction to Psychoanalysis is a down-to-earth guide to arguably the most misunderstood of all the psychological therapies. With reference to contemporary developments in theory and practice, the book explains what psychoanalysis really is, providing the reader with an overview of } basic concepts } historical development } main critiques, and } research base. Demonstrating the far reaching influence of psychoanalysis, the authors - all practicing psychoanalysts - describe how its concepts have been applied beyond the consulting room and examine its place within the spectrum of other psychological theories. Whether reading about psychoanalysis as part of an academic course or purely for personal interest, A Short Introduction to Psychoanalysis provides the ideal `way-in' to the subject for new readers. For those who are thinking of becoming a psychoanalyst, the book also provides information on the training process and the structure of the profession.

Genres: Psychology, Psychoanalysis, Nonfiction

Paperback

First published March 18, 2004

About the author

Jane Millton farms at Clarence River near Kaikoura in New Zealand. Moo and Moo live on her farm.

Reviews

[Andreu Orra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Too shalow in so many interesting things.

[Rachel Bonnington · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great introduction to psychoanalysis, suitable for anyone with an interest in psychoanalysis from patients, clients and relatives of service users to those considering a career in the profession.
I found the sections on basic concepts of psychoanalytic theory and its research basis particularly interesting, while I largely skimmed a lot of the stuff on historical development and the structure of the profession. However, the book is well-structured so that you can easily choose whatever is most interesting or relevant to you.

[Josh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good, though not as much discussion on theory, fields and concepts as I had hoped. Still an interesting read, though not much depth covered.

[Blake Frederick · Rating 2 out of 5]

A fairly superficial if boring and limited survey.

[Gregor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eye-opening.

[Paul Johnston · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent concise introduction to psycho-analysis. Good balance of theory with clinical illustrations and generally very clear and sensible.