Absent Fathers, Yearning Sons: A Jungian Analysis of the Father-Son Dynamic

By Susan E. Schwartz

Building on the success of her first book that explored the father/daughter relationship, Susan Schwartz turns her attention to the father/son dynamic in this compelling new work. Drawing on the fields of psychoanalysis, Schwartz applies the concepts of absence to the Jungian concept of the search for the self.

This fascinating book examines the profound psychological and cultural consequences of father absence, a topic often overlooked in Jungian explorations of the psyche, clinical studies and case examples. Through vivid vignettes, Schwartz delves into the generational trauma and neglected complexities of the father/son relationship. She highlights how the absence of a father figure shapes individual and collective experiences, offering insights into the psychological impact and the broader cultural implications. Her exploration sheds light on the unspoken grief and unresolved tensions that ripple through families and society, providing a fresh perspective on Jungian concepts regarding this critical yet underexplored subject.

This is an essential resource for analytical and depth psychologists, therapists, academics, and students with Jungian and post-Jungian interests. It also serves as a valuable guide for anyone seeking to understand and heal the intricate dynamics between fathers and sons.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1032974974
• ISBN13: 9781032974972
• Release Date: May 2026
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 216 Pages