Description
Book SynopsisThis is an overview of narcissistic pathology and narcissistic disorders to date. Combining the latest empirical evidence, clinical diagnostic observations, and advances in treatment, this volume addresses important subjects at the forefront of the study of narcissism.
Trade ReviewIf the understanding of narcissistic personality disorder is a work in progress, then Ronningstam's textbook is the most current and meaningful guide to this work. . . . This book is obligatory for those who treat in this field and would be a welcome edition to the libraries of those with a more general practice. Even though much yet remains to be done in the domain of NPD, this book is the current 'gold standard' for this diagnosis. Disorders of Narcissism is therefore highly recommended.
* Journal of Psychotherapy Practice and Research *
This book is exceptionally clear and approachable. Ronningstam's familiarity with her subject and thoughtful commentary throughout the sections provide continuity and focus for a series of well written, comprehensive chapters. Readers will expand their knowledge of the narcissistic disorders and deepen their understanding of treatment issues, theoretical controversies, and clinical research on this important clinical subject.
* Doody's Health Sciences Book Review Journal *
This book is a significant achievement and will probably be the primary reference for clinical psychology and psychiatry with regard to the theory and diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorders for many years to come.
* Psychoanalytic Books: A Quarterly Journal of Reviews *
If you work with or are interested in patients with NPD, and desire a deeper understanding of this disorder, this text is an essential read.
* Bulletin of the Menninger Clinic *
Table of ContentsForeword. Diagnostic and Theoretical Considerations. Introduction to Section I. Normal narcissism: an etiological and ethological perspective. Pathological narcissism and narcissistic personality disorder: theoretical background and diagnostic classification. Further developments in the clinical diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder. The DSM narcissistic personality disorder: historical reflections and future directions. Developmental aspects of normal and pathological narcissism. Treatment Implications. Introduction to Section II. Transference and countertransference in the treatment of narcissistic patients. Psychoanalysis of patients with primary self-disorder: a self psychological perspective. An object relations theory approach to psychoanalysis with narcissistic patients. Treatment of narcissistic disorders in the intensive psychiatric milieu. Narcissistic patients in group psychotherapy: containing affects in the early group. Schema-focused therapy for narcissistic patients. Manifestations of narcissistic disorders in couples therapy: identification and treatment. Special Clinical Considerations. Introduction to Section III. Affect regulation and narcissism: trauma, alexithymia, and psychosomatic illness in narcissistic patients. Pathological narcissism and self-regulatory processes in suicidal states. Research. Introduction to Section IV. Empirical studies of the construct validity of narcissistic personality disorder. Pathological narcissism: long-term stability and presence in Axis I disorders. Association between psychopathy and narcissism: theoretical views and empirical evidence. Narcissistic personality disorder in adolescent inpatients: a retrospective record review study of descriptive characteristics. Afterword. Index.
