Psychoanalysis and Maternal Absence: From the Traumatic to Faith and Trust

This book explores the emotional, psychological, and somatic consequences of maternal absence, focusing on the experiences of individuals who have not had a mother. It spans various backgrounds and emphasizes the tension between witnessing and participating in client interventions, advocating for authenticity and creativity in psychoanalysis. It will be a valuable resource for psychotherapists and students studying object relations, childhood trauma, sexual trauma, and clinical therapy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 156 pages
Publication date: 04 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Experience of maternal absence manifests in a multitude of ways, and this comprehensive exploration delves into the profound emotional, psychological, and somatic consequences that it engenders in an individual's relationship with their body, psyche, and intimate connections. While this book does not explicitly focus on mothers, it instead sheds light on the complex ways in which individuals navigate the trauma of not having had a mother figure in their lives. Spanning diverse backgrounds, from the collective child-rearing method practiced in kibbutz communities in Israel to the unique challenges faced by children raised by single parents, those born through sperm or egg donation, and adults who have endured chronic sexual abuse, Shapira-Berman meticulously observes the delicate position of the analyst and the intricate interplay between acts of witnessing and active participation in client interventions. Embracing the principles of authenticity and creativity, this text culminates in a reconfiguration of the roles of faith and trust within the realm of psychoanalysis, offering solace and hope to those embarked on their therapeutic journeys.

This book holds immense value for psychotherapists, as well as for numerous undergraduate and postgraduate studies in object relations, childhood trauma, sexual trauma, and clinical therapy. Its comprehensive insights and thoughtful analysis provide a rich foundation for understanding the intricate dynamics of maternal absence and its impact on individuals' emotional well-being. By exploring the emotional, psychological, and somatic consequences of maternal absence, this book offers valuable tools and perspectives for practitioners working with clients who have experienced this profound loss or trauma.

In conclusion, this book is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of psychoanalysis, offering a profound exploration of the emotional, psychological, and somatic consequences of maternal absence. By embracing the values of authenticity and creativity, it reconfigures the roles of faith and trust within psychoanalysis and provides hope to those on their therapeutic journeys. As a valuable resource for psychotherapists and scholars alike, this book will undoubtedly enrich our understanding of the human psyche and contribute to the advancement of clinical practice.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032066455