Do you sometimes dread work because you don't want to face more drama with your co-worker? Have you spent significant time and money on therapy trying to work on painful romantic relationships that ultimately became messy break-ups? Do you ever walk away from an unpleasant conversation wishing you had known how to handle it better in the moment? This book is for you.
Australian clinical psychologist Rachel Samson and American attachment researcher Dr Jessie Stern have come together to bring you the ultimate guide to understanding the 'difficult' people in your life. Learn how to navigate your interactions with them with more confidence and compassion – and a lot less stress!
Using the science of attachment and temperament, Beyond Difficult offers a new, relationship-focused approach to mastering the art of dealing with difficult people.
About the Authors
Rachel Samson, M. Psych (Clin) is an Australian clinical psychologist, lecturer, writer and speaker. Recognised as a relationships and parenting expert, Rachel is regularly featured in the media, from radio, print and television to podcasts and across social media, where she is known for her platform @australianpsychologist.
Dr Jessie Stern, PhD is an American psychologist, researcher, and assistant professor at Pomona College. Her work – including more than 50 research articles and book chapters on relationships – has been featured by CNN, The Conversation, Scientific American and other outlets. She is a frequent speaker on topics such as attachment, empathy, child and adolescent development, and mental health
Industry Reviews
‘Finally – a book about difficult people that doesn’t make you want to throw it at one. It’s comprehensive, refreshingly practical and easy to digest – exactly what every leader needs when navigating tough personalities.’
– Taryn Brumfitt
‘Engaging, practical and so relatable. A guide for everyone to keep in their back pockets to help navigate life’s tricky relationships.’
– Dr Marny Lishman
‘A remarkable combination of deep and accurate reliance on research and clinical literatures along with exceptionally clear writing and engaging use of self-help tips and examples … The world would be a much happier and healthier place if everyone read this book.’
– Dr Phillip R Shaver
‘For anyone who at times navigates difficult relationships (that is, all of us!), this work offers not only reassurance but also actionable guidance for cultivating lasting, meaningful bonds … It is more than a book – it is a roadmap to deeper connection and greater emotional wellbeing.’
– Dr Jude Cassidy
‘Beyond Difficult is a rare gem that transforms the way you see difficult relationships … Rather than offering simplistic solutions, this book invites us into a deeper understanding of human complexity, teaching us to recognise attachment patterns, temperament differences and neurodiversity with genuine curiosity instead of judgement. This book is a powerful reminder that behind every challenging behaviour is a human being with their own attachment story waiting to be understood.’
– Lael Stone
‘A powerful book that will help you understand yourself and the people you love more deeply … I will be sure to share this wonderful book with my family and friends.’
– Jessica Urlichs
