Dynamics of Psychoanalytic Institutions

‘Dynamics of Psychoanalytic Institutions: Legacy, Transformation and Becoming’ is a much needed and remarkable achievement for the understanding of one of the less explored dimensions of our discipline, which at the same time is a central one: our own institutions. Written by a group of the most well known and experienced analysts in this field, this excellent book arrives at a moment when we all need to deepen our insights on how our institutions begun, developed , and must keep alive their vitality and the capacity to continue as a work in progress and continuous transformation.’ Cláudio Laks Eizirik, Former President of the International Psychoanalytic Association, Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil ‘Springing forth from the engagement with the individual psyche, its conflictual and needful nature, the contributions of psychoanalysis in the social realm have been marginalized. Lately, however, the exploration of institutional and societal issues has gradually grown to receive its fair share and equal status. This book, Dynamics of Psychoanalytic Institutions, Legacy, Transformation and Becoming, is a major step in this direction. The topics covered are fascinating and relevant to every major aspect of psychoanalytic institutional and organizational life. It offers a complex tapestry that keenly explores institutional developments, emphasizing their formative stages and historical circumstances, which both fertilize and restrict freedom and creativity. Far from idealizing, these dynamics are explored penetratingly through a psychoanalytic lens and with analytic neutrality. The issues considered are too numerous to list, ranging from the training of candidates to the splitting and rejoining of mature societies. It is equally striking that this important work on group and organizational dynamics is the product of a working group with different styles and backgrounds that succeeds in forming a rich and rewarding whole. It will undoubtedly be a major addition to this growing area of study and exploration.’ Shmuel Erlich, Prof. (Emeritus), Sigmund Freud Chair, Hebrew University; Past Chair, IPA Institutional Issues Committee