Adjusted American: Normal Neurosis in the Individual and Society

by Gail J. Putney

Adjusted Normal Neuroses in the Individual and Society by Snell Putney

Genres: Psychology

Paperback

First published December 1, 1964

Reviews

[Joe · Rating 5 out of 5]

For all the problems that the book has because of the era in which it was written, I found it to be a remarkable book with a clarity not to be found elsewhere with the same degree of insight. There are a lot of good ideas concerning the way in which the self is constructed in American society and the sorts of problems that this has on the individual's sense of worth and identity and through it all, there is a hope that people do have the power to change their lives and be free of even the neuroses that society imposes upon them. For some background, this text is heavily influenced by David Riesman. Definitely recommended.

[Emily Lee · Rating 2 out of 5]

Skimmed for d.school class. Kinda crazy how well it holds up besides the obvious language and certain aspects of social norms / society but the underlying themes stay true. Despite this - could've been a short story or blog post - some could quotes and food for thought but hard to get through and the old writing was sometimes hard to follow. Intrigued how class discussion will go

[Michele Engel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read it when I was a senior in H.S. ~ 1972. Radically changed my concept of "normal" as applied to human beings. Gave me a much better understanding of neurosis. Truly eye opening.

[Rana Banankhah · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best — if not THE best — book I've ever read. Will completely transform the way you view yourself and others.

[Gerald Jerome · Rating 5 out of 5]

If nothing else, read it for the sake of broadening one's perspective. This book attempts to extrapolate on the issues of neurotic or indirect love (seeking love from others in order to love one's self), autonomy, and self-acceptance within what was observed in the American public of its time. The authors are very concise and logical in explaining what results in a very fractured public. However, my only issue with philosophical writings of this sort, is that while they're thought-provoking, they can never be more than conjecture. This is what's tricky about trying to explain cognitive origin and impetus for forms of human cognition. That being said, I rated it five because I feel it is a writing unlike any other I've seen. I would recommend it to anyone.

[Katherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

A book about how Americans create and maintain their identity of self. The "normal neurosis" extends from one's efforts to conform to society. Interesting points include the mirror of hatred, indirect self-acceptance, problems with love, and the weight of obligation and pressure.

[Annika · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sexism aside, this book is a wonderful way to make you question how you live your life and the way you see the world.

[Jim Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book I read as a sophomore in college. Gives great insight into the problems of our success/goal driven culture.