[chunkydora]

I'm interested in seeing what Freud and other psychodynamic theorists have got to say about psychology and mental illness in particular (psychosis, manic-depression), but the sheer volume of reading is a bit daunting. If anyone is familiar with these theories, I'd appreciate any recommendation on what might be a good starting point.

"A General Introduction to Psychoanalysis" perhaps, or something by a more modern "disciple"?

Thanks in advance.

[Travelinglady]

Hmmm. You might want to find a book that summarizes the different theories such as a "Theories of Personality Book." Freud himself made dream anaylsis popular by his classic The Interpretation of Dreams. You might even Google "psychoanalysis" to see what books are now available.

[CantExplain]

Originally Posted by chunkydora

I'm interested in seeing what Freud and other psychodynamic theorists have got to say about psychology and mental illness in particular (psychosis, manic-depression), but the sheer volume of reading is a bit daunting.

I found Freud to be totally unreadable, even in small doses. But there are "popular" works that are more accessible.

In psychotherapy, a knowledge of the theory isn't necessarily an advantage when you come to practice it.

[ECHOES]

"Basic Freud" Psychoanalytic Thought for the 21st Century, by Michael Kahn, PhD is a good one. He also wrote "Between Therapist and Client".