Anna Freud Books

'There are few situations in life which are more difficult to cope with than an adolescent son or daughter during the attempt to liberate themselves' Anna Freud was one of the most creative and innovative thinkers in the history of psychoanalysis, whose pioneering work in child analysis and development revolutionized the treatment of the young. This essential anthology of her writings includes extracts from her classic The Ego and the Mechanisms of Defence, as well as papers on normal and pathological child development, on adolescence, trauma, aggression and analytical technique. Together they offer a definitive overview of her entire career, displaying the richness, variety and originality of her thinking. 'An achievement of the first importance ... underlines the clarity and cogency of Anna Freud's thinking, [and] makes it accessible to a wide audience' Clifford Yorke, former Medical Director, the Anna Freud Centre, London

Focusing on the often-overlooked concept of normality in psychoanalysis, this book addresses common parenting challenges and typical issues faced by clinicians. It combines practical guidance with clinical insights, offering valuable perspectives on everyday psychological phenomena. Additionally, it provides significant theoretical contributions to the field of psychology, making it a resource for both parents and professionals seeking a deeper understanding of normal developmental processes.

The book explores the life and contributions of Anna Freud, the youngest child of Sigmund Freud, who played a pivotal role in the development of psychoanalytic child psychology. Born in Vienna, she followed in her father's footsteps, significantly shaping the emerging field of psychoanalysis through her innovative ideas and practices. Her legacy as a foundational figure in understanding child psychology is highlighted throughout the narrative.

The second volume in a classic trilogy of works by Joseph Goldstein, former Sterling Professor Emeritus of Law at Yale Law School; Albert J. Solnit, the former director of the Yale Child Study Center, and Anna Freud, daughter of Sigmund Freud. These texts ( Beyond the Best Interests of the Child was the first in the series, and In the Best Interests of the Child was the third) are classic references often cited in child custody cases; Before the Best Interests of the Child specifically addresses when the state should intervene. Rather than the familiar legal "best interests of the child" doctrine, the authors’s work is based on the more realistic standard of finding the "least detrimental alternative." This is indispensable reading for social workers, family court judges, lawyers, psychologists, and parents.

In this selection of her father's writings Anna Freud has defined and included the essential, irreducible elements of psycho-analysis.