The Stages of Life: A Groundbreaking Discovery: The Steps to Psychological Maturity

By Clifford Anderson

A new theory about the psychological maturation process proposes the existence of a template built into the human unconscious that is responsible for overseeing psychological growth.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0871134810
• ISBN13: 9780871134813
• Release Date: August 1995
• Publisher: Atlantic Monthly Press
• Length: 222 Pages
• Weight: 1.09 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.3" x 0.8" x 6.0"

Customer Reviews

The Stages of Life: A Groundbreaking Discovery:

I read Dr. Anderson's book about 3-4 years ago after another psychologist recommended it after I asked her why I kept making the same mistakes and how I could go about addressing that issue rather than just trying to work out the individual conflicts resulting from the mistakes. This book changed my life. It immediately answered my questions and gave me a new way of looking at events in my life. Since that time I free-associate on a regular basis by writing every morning. My life is changing -- slowly but consistently. I am going FOR more fulfilling and meaningful activities and projects rather than spending so much time trying to figure out what I should have done in the past. Dr. Anderson understands the mind and how it works and how we can make the most with what we've got if we follow the steps. I hope he will have another book in the future to reveal more of his insights and knowledge. His ideas are working for me when I thought nothing would help me out of the quicksand I was in. The harder I struggled, the more I would sink. As I approach my mid-50's and the new millenium, I find myself thinking more positively and looking forward to all that life has in store. His theories work and I thank him for this gift.

It worked for me.

I bought the book some time ago, but as is my habit, did not read it until recently. I am astounded by the recent reviews. I found this book to be one of the most helpful and enlightening books I have ever read, and I have read many. Just the part about organizers and borrowing was an eye-opener for me. It explains what my life has been all about recently, what with the difficulty my wife and I are having finalizing our divorce. In fact, it helps explain why we grew apart in the first place. I am so grateful to have the information Dr. Anderson presents. When "placed in developmental perspective" behavior takes on an entirely different meaning. My wife and I can both stop feeling guilty now. Also, I think the author's suggestion that we are still immature as a species and still going through phases and stages--just as we did in childhood and adolescence--is brilliant. From the reviews you have received, I guess one either loves the book or hates it. And I guess that all depends on how much of the book one "gets." I got it - at least enough to make a difference in my life.

A true awakening to the human thought process

I read Harry Dent's book, The Roaring 2000s, and taking his recommendation, ordered The Stages of Life. This is a marvelous book. I now understand the human life cycle. In addition, for the first time, I understand the concept of nonlinear processing and what must happen within each developing mind for one to become a nonlinear processor. Having said this, my business partner, who is not at all interested in human or personal development, found Anderson's book less rewarding.

Perhaps the most valuable book you'll ever read

The style may be a little dry, but the insightfullness of this book is very rich. I picked up this book at the suggestion of a friend, and it's the biggest favor that friend has ever done for me. I really feel a sense of "mental liberation" since reading it. I don't want to overstate the effect this book has had on my life because it will come across as contrived, but I thought I'd try to pass along the favor my friend has done for me.

Best book on the human life cycle

I finally found a book that fully explains the life cycle, and, does it in a most understandable and useful way. I recommend it for anyone interested in psychology in general or self-development in specific.