The Women of Anna Freud’s War Nurseries: Their Lives and Work

The book explores the lives and work of the staff members of the War Nurseries set up and run by Anna Freud and Dorothy Burlingham during the Second World War. It charts their education from Freud and Burlingham, which led to their independent psychoanalytic child therapy training and their careers as professional analysts. It also illustrates the intense relationships between children in care and their analysts/carers and uses the children of the War Nurseries as examples for how contemporary psychoanalysts can work with children today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In this captivating volume, Christiane Ludwig-Körner delves into the lives and remarkable work of the staff members who graced the War Nurseries established and managed by the visionary duo of Anna Freud and Dorothy Burlingham during the tumultuous Second World War. The Women of Anna Freud's War Nurseries takes us on a thoughtful exploration, unveiling the stories of these remarkable women who played a pivotal role in shaping the lives of children who had endured the same tragic fate as them. As young survivors of the Holocaust, these women dedicated themselves to providing solace and care to the young ones who had suffered the same devastating consequences.

Few among them arrived with a profound understanding of psychoanalytic theories or methods; yet, this volume charts their remarkable journey of learning from Anna Freud and Dorothy Burlingham. It is a testament to their unwavering dedication and commitment that they not only acquired a deep knowledge of psychoanalytic principles but also embarked on their own independent psychoanalytic child therapy training. This transformative education paved the way for them to embark on fulfilling careers as professional analysts, making a lasting impact on the field of child psychology.

Throughout the book, Ludwig-Körner employs captivating case studies to illustrate the profound and often complex relationships that developed between the children in care and their dedicated analysts/carers. These relationships, characterized by trust, empathy, and resilience, serve as a testament to the transformative power of psychoanalytic therapy. By using the children of the War Nurseries as examples, Ludwig-Körner showcases how contemporary psychoanalysts can continue to work with children, employing the same principles and techniques that were instrumental in their healing and growth.

This book holds immense significance for psychoanalysts, particularly those who specialize in working with children. It provides valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating the intricate dynamics of child therapy, offering a wealth of knowledge and wisdom drawn from the experiences of the War Nurseries. Moreover, scholars and professionals interested in the history of child analysts and childhood trauma will find this book to be a treasure trove of valuable information and insights.

In conclusion, The Women of Anna Freud's War Nurseries is a captivating and enlightening exploration of the lives and work of the staff members who graced the War Nurseries during World War II. Through the stories of these remarkable women, Ludwig-Körner sheds light on the power of psychoanalytic therapy and its ability to heal and transform the lives of children who have endured trauma. This book is a must-read for psychoanalysts, scholars, and professionals alike, as it offers valuable insights and practical strategies for working with children in today's world.

Weight: 362g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032517544