Object Relations Theory and Self Psychology in Social Work Practice

by Eda G. Goldstein

Book Overview

Object Relations and Self Psychology are two leading schools of psychological thought discussed in social work classrooms and applied by practitioners to a variety of social work populations. Yet both groups have lacked a basic manual for teaching and reference -- until now. For them, Dr. Eda G. Goldstein's book fills a void on two fronts: Part I provides a readable, systematic, and comprehensive review of object relations and self psychology, while...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 068484009X
• ISBN13: 9780684840093
• Release Date: February 2002
• Publisher: Free Press
• Length: 320 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.4" x 9.5"

Customer Reviews

Hidden Gem For a Wider Audience

There are now a number of wildly popular "spiritual" books citing the defeat of the ego as the ultimate path to happiness and spiritual evolution. Despite a number of obvious personal differences with the Christian Right, Eda unveils insights about the self, ego, and social development that are far more valuable as guides to real spiritual progress than a lot of the "Eastern" fluff books. With incisive wit, deep insights, and carefully selected and documented information from research, her own practice, historical analysis and intuition, this sweet hearted light contributes a wealth of insights with the mental power of an Arendt, without leaving the lay reader behind. Even though this title has become the standard for bridging Psych OR theory and real life SW practice, it deserves a much wider audience of anyone seriously interested in spiritual development. The Baha'i Philosophy Review has marked this as a must read, and Oprah needs to take note! Beyond the need to feel important each child must develop to survive, beyond the social pressures to develop ego, Goldstein gives us peeks at other possiblities for happiness not based on materialism. This author hosted a group of the world's top transplant surgeons in NY some years ago, and asked "What if the ultimate purpose of life is to abandon the ego, not feed it?" The 20 plus global medical geniuses around the table answered, "It probably is, but I wonder if we'd have the confidence to do what we do without that structure?" Help us with this one, Doc!