Mentalization: Theoretical Considerations, Research Findings, and Clinical Implications

by Fredric N. Busch (Editor)

Mentalization is the capacity to perceive and interpret behavior in terms of intentional mental states, to imagine what others are thinking and feeling, and is a concept that has taken the psychological and psychoanalytic worlds by storm. This collection of papers, carefully edited by Fredric Busch, clarifies its import as an essential perspective for understanding the human psyche and interpersonal relationships. The book is divided into theoretical, research and clinical papers, reflecting how the investigators thoughtfully and purposefully pursued each of these goals. Those involved in identifying mentalization have also made consistent efforts to measure and research the concept. Thus, in addition to expanding the theoretical bases and implications of mentalization and identifying clinically useful applications, the authors describe research that scientifically grounds the concept.

Mentalization addresses and expands upon a number of implications of mentalization. These include: What are the broader implications for mentalization with regard to social and evolutionary development? How does mentalization interdigitate with other psychoanalytic models? How is mentalization systematically assessed? What clinical correlates have been found? How do we understand variations in the capacity for mentalization, even within a given individual? What are the applications of mentalization in the clinical arena, including specific disorders? Readers of this volume will find their clinical work to be more productive and their view of the human psyche broadened.

320 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Dylan Knight · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first time reading a Sherlock Holmes book, and I really enjoyed it. A Study in Scarlet was a good introduction to Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. It shows how they meet and how Holmes uses his reasoning to solve cases. The story moves at a steady pace and gives a clear idea of what makes Holmes such an interesting character.
I liked The Hound of the Baskervilles more overall. The mystery was more exciting, and the setting made it stand out. Still, A Study in Scarlet was enjoyable and made the next story easier to follow.
I would recommend these stories to anyone who likes mysteries, classics, or just wants something to read in their free time. The writing is older but still easy to understand. The only part that confused me was the flashback in A Study in Scarlet. The story suddenly moves from Holmes arresting someone to a scene in the American desert with Mormons. It felt random, but it just took a bit of time to understand what was happening.