New Books in Psychology

Sandra Buechler, a recently retired psychoanalyst and author, discusses her book on the role of values in psychoanalysis. She delves into patients' common struggles, including loss, guilt, and the quest for meaning, illustrating how an analyst's values shape treatment. Buechler intertwines poetry with psychoanalysis to enrich understanding and shares insights from her experiences with her former supervisee, Christopher Bandini. She reflects on the complexities of retirement, emotional health, and the interplay of love and hate in personal growth.

Neil Vickers, a Professor of English literature with a keen focus on medicine, and Derek Bolton delve into the complexities of illness, care, and social dynamics. They explore how serious health challenges can reshape interpersonal relationships, emphasizing the isolation felt by both the ill and their caregivers. Drawing on neuroscience and personal narratives, they advocate for communal support systems over individualistic approaches. The conversation highlights the critical role of empathy and connection in fostering resilience during illness.

Naomi Seidman, a Chancellor Jackman Professor of the Arts at the University of Toronto, dives into the intricate connections between psychoanalysis and Jewish identity. She challenges the popular obsession with Freud's Jewishness, spotlighting the motivations behind this scholarly pursuit. Seidman discusses the role of Hebrew and Yiddish in psychoanalytic literature and examines personal influences on her writing. The conversation also touches on the identity struggles of Jews in the context of Freud's theories, revealing the complexities of assimilation and cultural heritage.

Alessandra Seggi, a Fulbright grantee and sociology educator, dives deep into how youth and suicide are depicted in American cinema. She critiques these portrayals, revealing them as often simplistic and unbalanced. The conversation underscores the importance of media literacy for young audiences, empowering them to navigate sensitive topics depicted in films. Seggi emphasizes the interplay between cultural narratives and societal attitudes toward mental health, making a compelling case for critical engagement with cinematic representations.

Camilla Nord, a pioneering neuroscientist specializing in mental health, shares insights from her new book, detailing how our brains seek balance amidst life's challenges. She discusses the neurobiology behind emotional states, emphasizing the roles of dopamine and serotonin. Nord highlights the surprising efficacy of simple pleasures like chocolate and friendship, showing they can activate the same brain pathways as advanced treatments. Furthermore, she navigates the complex relationship between mental and metabolic health, advocating for tailored approaches in mental well-being.

Joy Knoblauch, an expert at the crossroads of psychology and institutional design, discusses the powerful influence of architectural choices on human behavior in postwar America. She explores how federal initiatives sought to use design as a tool for social betterment, often with complex intentions. Knoblauch critiques the darker aspects of behavioral psychology in prisons and the evolving roles of architects as researchers and reformers. The conversation reveals how past strategies impact modern institutional designs amidst contemporary challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Neil Van Leeuwen, a scholar specializing in the intersection of psychology and religion, delves into the nuanced distinctions between religious beliefs and ordinary factual beliefs. He introduces the concept of a 'two-map cognitive structure' that combines factual reality with imaginative realms, shaping group identity and social interactions. Van Leeuwen explains how even improbable beliefs play a vital role in fostering community cohesion. The discussion also touches on the psychological dynamics of faith, doubt, and the meaningful role of petitionary prayer within groups.

Corinne Masur, an award-winning childhood grief expert, shares her insights on helping children cope with loss. She reflects on her own experience losing her father, highlighting how children process grief differently from adults. Masur discusses the importance of including children in mourning and offers clinically informed advice for caregivers. She emphasizes the need for emotional support, understanding developmental stages of grief, and acknowledges the often overlooked emotional challenges faced by grieving siblings.

Vic Sedlak, an expert in psychoanalysis and emotional development, discusses the nuanced emotional challenges faced by clinicians. He explores the tension between the superego and ego ideals, revealing how this dichotomy impacts therapists' self-criticism and aspirations. Sedlak highlights the significance of recognizing blind spots and failures in therapy, advocating for self-awareness and supervision as keys to growth. He also delves into the delicate balance between honesty and compassion, emphasizing the necessity of addressing darker emotions for effective therapeutic relationships.

Mariana Craciun, a sociologist and author, explores how American psychiatrists learn psychotherapy amidst the challenges of bridging medical expertise with understanding the mind. She discusses the skepticism novice psychiatrists face, contrasting pharmacological approaches with psychotherapeutic techniques. Craciun highlights the evolution of training practices, the power dynamics in medical settings, and the vital role of skepticism in fostering inquiry and competence. Listeners gain insights into the shifting landscape of psychiatry and the complexities of integrating diverse therapeutic methods.