New Books in Psychology cover image

New Books in Psychology

Peter Shabad, "Passion, Shame, and the Freedom to Become: Seizing the Vital Moment in Psychoanalysis" (Routledge, 2024)

Feb 25, 2025
Peter Shabad, a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Northwestern University, discusses his new book on the interplay of passion and shame in personal growth. He explains how early relationships shape our emotional landscape and the importance of self-acceptance in overcoming shame. Shabad emphasizes that psychotherapy can help individuals reclaim their passion by recognizing their vulnerabilities. The conversation dives into the complexities of trauma, personal decision-making, and the dynamics of transference love in therapy, offering insights for anyone seeking healing.
01:35:55

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The podcast emphasizes the crucial role of caregiver receptivity in fostering a child's self-confidence and emotional development.
  • A deep connection is drawn between feelings of shame and the protective mechanisms of emotional enclosure, affecting interpersonal relationships.

Deep dives

The Dynamics of Generosity and Helplessness

The podcast highlights the process by which a child seeks to give something to a caregiver, with significant implications for emotional development. When the caregiver appreciates this gift, it fosters self-confidence, love, and a sense of connection that allows the child to grow positively. Conversely, when a caregiver fails to acknowledge the child's offering, it leads to feelings of helplessness and shame, creating a relational void. This dynamic illustrates how the reception of gifts in early relationships can shape an individual's ability to form healthy connections later in life.

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