An Expert Look at Love, Intimacy, and Personal Growth Second Edition 2008

by Robert M. Gordon, Ph.D

After thirty years of theoretical formulations, I pull them all together in my comprehensive model of love relations by integrating evolutionary psychology, psychoanalysis, cognitive and social psychology. This theoretical model lets us see why relationships can be so irrational.

Why do so many people have problems with love and intimacy?

Why do some parents scapegoat their children?

What is Parental Alienation Syndrome?

What is the MMPI?

Can we predict dangerousness?

Why do we have ground rules in therapeutic relationships?

Why must we grieve loss?

Are the years in psychoanalytic psychotherapy worth it?

How does one achieve personal growth?

How do psychologists detect lying and defenses?

Which theory of psychotherapy is best?

Is self-esteem important or is it a pop-psych myth?

Is it the divorce that hurts children or what came before the divorce?

What is a psychotherapy session like?

"This collection of papers spans 30 years of Dr. Robert Gordon's pioneering work in love, intimacy, and personal growth. Set against the backdrop of a psychoanalytic and social psychology perspective, Gordon draws upon his vast experience as a scientist and practitioner to provide the reader with unique insight into the dynamics of intimate relations. This book is a gem that is filled with clinical perspicacity. It has all the makings of a classic, and it is a must-read for anyone interested in broadening their perspective on what it takes to foster healthier intimacies."

Frank M. Dattilio, Ph.D., ABPP
Department of Psychiatry
Harvard Medical School
Boston, MA