Object Relations Theories and Psychopathology: A Comprehensive Text

Frank Summers has updated his book on object relations theories to demonstrate their evolution and significance for therapeutic practice. It includes a new chapter on relational psychoanalysis and expounds the ideas and assumptions of each theory relative to metapsychology, psychopathology, and treatment. It will be essential reading for analysts, psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers who wish to familiarize themselves with object relations theories or enhance their ability to employ them in their clinical work.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 364 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Twenty-nine years have passed since the initial publication of Frank Summers' renowned work, Object Relations Theory: An Introduction. In this revised and updated edition, Summers has undertaken a meticulous exploration of the diverse object relations theories, showcasing their evolution and enduring relevance in therapeutic practice. This comprehensive volume encompasses a thorough elucidation of the significant scholarship that has advanced the ideas of prominent object relations theorists, including Fairbairn, Klein, Winnicott, Kernberg, and Kohut, since the publication of the first edition. To ensure its status as a "state of the art" articulation of current object relations thinking, a dedicated chapter has been added, focusing on the emergence and development of relational psychoanalysis.

Within this volume, Summers delves into the intricate concepts and assumptions of each theory, exploring their connections to metapsychology, psychopathology, and treatment. He provides a critical evaluation of the strengths and limitations of each approach, offering valuable insights for analysts, psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers seeking to familiarize themselves with object relations theories in general, deepen their understanding of specific object relations theorists' work, or enhance their ability to apply these theories in their clinical practice.

Through extensive use of historic case material, Summers vividly illustrates how each object relations theory yields specific clinical approaches to a wide range of syndromes. He demonstrates how these approaches entail specific modifications in clinical technique, enabling practitioners to tailor their interventions to the unique needs of their clients. This volume serves as an invaluable resource for professionals seeking to expand their knowledge and expertise in object relations theory, enabling them to deliver effective and compassionate care to those in need.

Weight: 656g
Dimension: 175 x 245 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032779300
Edition number: 2 ed