A Short Introduction to Psychoanalysis

by Jane Milton, Caroline Polmear, Julia Fabricius

A Short Introduction to Psychoanalysis offers a user-friendly introduction to arguably the most misunderstood of all the psychological therapies. This fully updated and revised Second Edition explains what psychoanalysis really is and provides the reader with an overview of its basic concepts, historical development, 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. The text is enlivened by numerous clinical examples.

Genres: Psychology, Psychoanalysis, Nonfiction

225 pages, Kindle Edition

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.

[Pete · Rating 2 out of 5]

the fact that much of the information provided is twenty years out of date notwithstanding, this still managed to come off as dated on account of its narrow fixation on a scientifically-backed, british-based psychoanalysis that tries takes the middle “both-sides” route. it’s good as a reminder that dumb ideas are frequently wrapped up in academic language.

and still no fanon!

[Josh Pittman · Rating 4 out of 5]

pretty lovely introductory text. Provides some excellent counters to some basic misunderstandings of psychoanalytic theory/practice. great reference section that sets you up to go off and read in greater depth on any of the topics covered lightly here. loved it!

[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.

[Dulce · Rating 3 out of 5]

Una buena introducción dice mucho y nada a la vez.

[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.