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, covering its basic concepts, historical development, main critiques and research base.
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.