1st Edition

Working Intersubjectively Contextualism in Psychoanalytic Practice

    116 Pages
    by Routledge

    112 Pages
    by Routledge

    From an overview of the basic principles of intersubjectivity theory, Orange, Atwood, and Stolorow proceed to contextualist critiques of the concept of psychoanalytic technique and of the myth of analytic neutrality. They then examine the intersubjective contexts of extreme states of psychological disintegration, and conclude with an examination of what it means, philosophically and clinically, to think and work contextually.
       
    This lucidly written and cogently argued work is the next step in the development of intersubjectivity theory. In particular, it is a clinically grounded continuation of Stolorow and Atwood's Contexts of Being (TAP, 1992), which reconceptualized four foundational pillars of psychoanalytic theory -- the unconscious, mind-body relations, trauma, and fantasy -- from an intersubjective perspective. Working Intersubjectively expounds and illustrates the contextualist sensibility that grows out of this reconceptualization. Like preceding volumes in the Psychoanalytic Inquiry Book Series by Robert Stolorow and his colleagues, it will be theoretically challenging and clinically useful to a wide readership of psychoanalysts and psychoanalytically informed psychotherapists.

    Preface. Intersubjectivity Theory and the Clinical Exchange. Beyond Technique: Psychoanalysis as a Form of Practice. The Myth of Neutrality. Contexts of Nonbeing: Varieties of the Experience of Personal Annihilation. Thinking and Working Contextually. Epilogue.

    Biography

    Donna M. Orange, George E. Atwood, Robert D. Stolorow

    "A radical and most relevant revision of psychoanalytic theory and practice informed by contemporary philosophy, developmental theory, and clinical experience.  It is a clearly written and up-to-date report from theorists at one of the leading edges of psychoanalytic progress.  For all who value the advancement of our field, this book is highly recommended reading."

    - Ernest S. Wolf, M.D., Institute for Psychoanalysis, Chicago