Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy After Child Abuse

Recent decades have seen an explosion of research into the extent of child abuse and into the effects of early relational trauma on the developing minds and brains of children. The lasting effects on survivors are increasingly recognized and can be addressed psychotherapeutically.This book is unique in two ways. Firstly, in bringing together for the first time the considerable scientific evidence of effectiveness and the vast body of accumulated clinical experience using psychoanalytical approaches in the treatment of people who have experienced childhood abuse. Secondly, in being the product of the widest collaboration of individuals and organizations concerned about the effects of child abuse, and experts on child abuse and psychotherapy. These include experts by experience, survivor groups, activists, academics, and clinicians: paediatricians, physicians, child and adult psychiatrists, psychoanalysts, psychologists, and psychoanalytic psychotherapists.Sections cover:- the epidemiology of child abuse- different aspects of child abuse - health consequences in children and adults - memories of abuse and the recovered memories controversy- high risk groups- gender- domestic violence- how early relational trauma interferes with early development and leads to disturbed attachment- impaired emotional regulation- dissociation'Psychoanalytic psychotherapy is one of many possible treatments proven to be helpful to people who have experienced sexual and physical abuse and neglect in their childhood. It has not proved possible to predict reliably who will respond to which specific psychotherapy. Different individuals will be able to benefit from different approaches and treatments at different stages of their lives, depending on their wishes, circumstances, level of support, and need. There is considerable scientific evidence of effectiveness and a considerable body of accumulated clinical experience using psychoanalytical approaches in the treatment of people who have experienced childhood sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and neglect. This guideline brings together this evidence for the first time.'- From the Introduction