The Affect Theory of Silvan Tomkins for Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy explores central issues in current clinical work, using the theories put forward by Silvan Tomkins and presenting them in detail. It integrates these theories with the most up-to-date neuroscience findings and infancy research, all based on a biopsychosocial, dynamic systems approach. Part I describes the essentials of life, based on our evolutionary and biological heritage, namely a need for a coherent understanding of one’s world and the capacity to act in that world.
Key Features
- Detailed exploration of Silvan Tomkins' theories.
- Integration of neuroscience findings with psychoanalysis.
- A biopsychosocial and dynamic systems approach.
- Longitudinal data covering early development from birth to three years.
- Case histories illustrating Tomkins' affect powered scripts.
Additional Information
Part II reviews current debates in psychoanalysis relating to motivation and the lack of an internally consistent theory. Recent neuroscience findings are presented, which both negate drive theory and support Tomkins' theory. In Part III, one clinical case and one longitudinal study case are examined through the lens of Tomkins' theory. Demos concludes with a look at competing approaches to theory and responds to recent cognitive-based attempts to disprove both Tomkins' work and the latest findings from neuroscience.
Specifications
The Affect Theory of Silvan Tomkins for Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy will appeal to psychoanalysts and psychoanalytic psychotherapists, as well as psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and psychiatric nurses.
