Psychoanalytic Practice - 2 Clinical Studies (Hardcover)

Through the discussion of numerous case studies, this second volume Psychoanalytic Practice illustrates the application of the principles presented in volume 1. The parallel arrangement of topics in both volumes facilitates cross-reference between the more clinical and the more theoretical discussions of the psychoanalytic situation and specific technical problems. The many faces of psychoanalysis are described here with reference to typical examples. These descriptions of succinct transference, countertransference, and resistance processes stem from the analyses of 37 patients who suffered from a wide variety of psychic and psychosomatic illnesses. The authors present case histories and treatment reports from a period spanning three decades, enabling them in many cases to examine the long-term effectiveness of psychoanalytic therapy. The case studies are based on traditional protocols and summaries of treatment and on transcripts of dialogues. This willingness of the analysts to report openly on their own therapeutic action is unusual. Patients' comments also constitute an important aspect of the discussion on the outcome of therapy. The clinical discussion together with the extensive indexes and reference list make this volume a work in its own right and the two-volume set an honest account of psychoanalytic work.