In this book the author examines the series of connections that give rise to the intimate relationship between environment and individual in the construction of emotional suffering, emphasizing both the undisputed pathogenic action of environmental stimuli and the active participation of whoever is obliged to suffer the negative situation. De Masi shows that the way in which one tries to escape suffering is what often seriously jeopardizes growth.

Working with Difficult Patients points out the intrinsic link between some forms of mental suffering and the distorted responses...

This book examines the terminology used in the analysis of sadomasochism, surveys extensively, and in detail, the theories of other psychoanalysts, and explores the relationship between sadomasochism and depression; its relationship to psychosis, borderline states, and many other conditions.

Why does someone resolve to take his own life in order to murder other people? What is the state of mind which allows him to commit such a monstrous act? This book explores the mental state that compels certain individuals to perform murderous, suicidal acts and emphasizes that, whereas a suicidal terrorist attack can be described as a crime against humanity, its protagonists cannot necessarily be classified as criminal or insane. There is no such a thing as a "typical" suicide terrorist - each attacker differs in age, sex, family status, culture, and even religion. Indeed, the common...