Damaged Core

Salman Akhtar uses his considerable skills as a psychoanalytic theoretician, clinician, and teacher to bring further clarity to the understanding and treatment of severe psychopathological conditions. His capacity to integrate a vast amount of information is impressive. He demonstrates the theoretical plurality that has marked psychoanalysis for the last two decades. He begins with the fundamental psychological issue for all severe psychopathological conditions, a damaged core, and follows it through development while addressing many theoretical and clinical issues. Most importantly, the reader is led to a greater appreciation of how patients are helped. This is a book of great value for anyone interested in severe psychopathology and its treatment. -- Melvin Bornstein, MD, Editor, Psychoanalytic Inquiry
In this scholarly and comprehensive volume, Salman Akhtar writes beautifully about the most complex subject in psychoanalysis, which is at the heart of our desire to understand our patients; the formation of the self. Special attention is given to the processes of separation and individuation and Akhtar's careful examination of the environment created by the psychoanalyst adds a dimension that goes beyond words. The developmental process is explicated in clear language and illustrated with a series of clinical vignettes that capture the complexity of the human mind. -- Anni Bergman PhD, author of Ours, Yours, Mine: Mutuality and the Emergence of the Separate Self
Part of the appeal of Akhtar's work lies in the selection he makes from the universe of clinical concepts. Each of the segments fits into a coherent whole to be both gripping in the midst of the journey and deeply appreciated at the conclusion of the trip. The author provides fresh perspectives on classic Freudian concepts and presents more modern structures with a contemporary eye. The ultimate effect is of a satisfying tour.... When Akhtar's bibliography is encountered, there is surprise, even awe, at the range, scope, and sheer productivity of his original writings and edited works. Having sat with and steeped myself in... The Damaged Core for the last few months, I am hungry for more. More important, the students whom I have introduced his work are eagerly ready too. * Psychoanalytic Psychology *
[Akhtar] structures with a contemporary eye....the author does a good job in covering topics of ground rules, the structure of the session, and logistics within it. Simultaneously, Akhtar sets an interpersonal tone in his writing that seems to be parallel to the kind of interpersonal feel one would expect in the room with him. It is clear, uncomplicated, tactful, and warm. Therapeutically, tone is as important as theory. We will all do well to learn from Akhtar's style of communication....I have not read a more clearly written guide to the experience-near navigation of the therapeutic process. SO many trainees in psychiatry and clinical psychology are desperate to know how to handle issues in therapy. Yes, they want to be guided by theory, but hey want to know what to say, as well. Akhtar provides both. * Psychoanalytic Psychology *