Psychodynamic Approaches to Behavioral Change

Psychoanalytic psychotherapies have traditionally
considered behavioral change as a secondary outcome, a beneficial byproduct
of gaining insight and making the unconscious conscious.

Though
clinical evidence suggests that an increasing number of psychoanalysts are
targeting behavioral change, strategic frameworks remain scarce.
Psychodynamic Approaches to Behavioral Change addresses this
deficiency.

This guide demonstrates how, rather than being at odds
with psychoanalytic treatments, targeting behavioral change can be part of
the development and employment of psychodynamic therapy and can be used to
enhance self-understanding. To that end, it offers readers a framework for
behavioral change interventions, including:


* Identifying problematic behaviors
* Examining the context,
affects, and meanings of problematic behaviors
* Formulating
contributing intrapsychic conflicts, defenses, and developmental
factors
* Identifying alternative behaviors
* Elaborating feelings
and fantasies about performing alternative behaviors
* Addressing
factors that interfere with alternative behaviors
* Working with the
impact of behavioral change
* The use of homework

Clinicians will
also find a frank discussion of potential pitfalls in efforts to change
behaviors and a description of interventions for sustaining behavioral
change, which will help them avoid some of the complex challenges that
targeting behavioral change can present, as well as aid them as they work
with their patients to maintain new behavior.

Throughout the book,
vignettes illustrate how to apply these psychodynamic techniques in the
clinical setting as clinician and patient collaborate to make practical
changes in the patient's life. And because of its jargon-free tone,
Psychodynamic Approaches to Behavioral Change will enable a broad
range of mental health professionals-whether psychiatrists, psychologists,
social workers, psychiatric nurses, or others-who use a variety of
treatments to be more effective in their approach.