In this profound work, Vittorio Guidano expands upon his earlier seminal contributions on the application of cognitive and developmental principles to individuals struggling with various forms of psychopathology. Here, he fully develops the idea that individuals' experience, both positive and negative, are powerfully influenced by their personal "psychological organizations." Focusing primarily on the eating disorders, the phobias (with agoraphobia as the prototype) obsessive-compulsive patterns, and depression, Guidano illustrates how early developmental experiences and ongoing psychological...

In this powerful work, Dr. Guidano critiques the separation of observer and observed, shows how the very meaning of "self" is thus redefined, and delineates the clinical ramifications of the newly conceived self for a "post-rationalist" cognitive therapy. Clinicians, according to Guidano, can do more than help patients change dysfunctional behavior. By directing therapy toward core emotional themes and utilizing the interactional aspects of the therapeutic relationship, practitioners can modify patients' core patterns of self-perception and thereby realize substantive and lasting change. Part...