Emotional Neglect and the Adult in Therapy: Lifelong Consequences to a Lack of Early Attunement

by Kathrin A. Stauffer

A clinical examination of the ways in which early neglect can impact adults throughout their lives, and suggestions for therapists on how to help. People who have experienced emotional neglect in the first months and years of life suffer negative consequences into adulthood. As adult psychotherapy clients, they require long-term work and delicate emotional attunement as well as a profound understanding of the experiences that have shaped their inner worlds. This book provides therapists with an in-depth view of the subjective experience of such “ignored children” and a range of possible theoretical models to help understand key features of their psychological functioning. Kathrin A. Stauffer presents do’s and don’t’s of psychotherapy with such clients. She draws on broad clinical experience to help psychotherapeutic professionals deepen their understanding of “ignored children” and outlines available neurobiological and psychological data to assist therapists in designing effective therapeutic interventions.
5 illustrations

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction, Self Help, Mental Health

264 pages, Hardcover

Published November 17, 2020

Reviews

[Maali · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is a surprisingly bad book. The major actual references are to Freud 1928 (sic!), the case examples are not well conceptualized (and hardly relatable) and the whole thing is not at all rooted in scientific concepts.

[Leah Dsouza · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It helped me understand my emotional trauma, how the brain works from a psychological perspective and because I was able to work through and understand what I went through, it played a major role in my healing. I am so glad I found this book when I was going through a tough time because it helped me feel, deal and heal from a dark place. I'd definitely recommend this book if you think you went through emtional neglect as a child.

[Chris · Rating 3 out of 5]

Handbook on therapy for emotionally neglected adults. Has a good but brief theoretic base, also stuff about polyvagal theory (PVT) which is also criticized nowadays. Contains principles and tips for therapist who treat adults who are emotionally neglected. Unfortunately only the more severe cases. So less practical for the less severe casus.

[Elaine Nicholson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read for psychotherapists dealing with adults who were ignored as children.

It’s an easy yet hugely educational read. I would re-read if I had the time as so good. Thank you Kathrin Stauffer.

[a · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read for anyone learning about autism, cptsd, or avoidance. I found this by chance through Spotify. My jaw is on the floor. Out of the dozens of self help books I’ve read over the years to try and figure out what’s wrong with me, this was like reading a biography.

[Susan Koester · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book I have ever read on the subject.

[Andy · Rating 3 out of 5]

licenta

[Shane Hickey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone should read this, particularly those working in mental health roles and educators.