From Psychoanalytic Narrative to Empirical Single Case Research

<p>Recognition of the need for empirical research and interest in its findings are growing in psychoanalysis. Many psychoanalysts now acknowledge that research is imperative to try to deal with the factors propelling the diminution in status and prestige of the discipline as well as the number of patients in intensive psychoanalytic treatment. In addition there is increased pressure to expose and acquaint candidates with analytic research in the course of their education. </p><p><em>From Psychoanalytic Narrative to Empirical Single Case Research</em> revivifies the experimental potential of psychoanalysis by focusing a number of structured research methods on a single case study. Drs. Kächele Schachter and Thomä in tandem with the Ulm Psychoanalytic Process Research Study Group bring their formidable tools and knowledge to bear on Amalia X a former patient of Dr. Thomä’s whose case history is well-documented preserved and available for formal empirical study. After providing an intensive review of the problematic aspects of clinical psychoanalytic research and an exegesis on the use of the case study itself the specific case history of Amalia X which dominates and centers the remainder of the book is thoroughly examined. The following two chapters – utilizing clinical and linguistic models respectively – deconstruct Amalia’s psychopathology along a variety of methodological axes in an effort not only to uncover the roots of her presenting symptoms but also to reify and validate the strange bedfellows of psychoanalysis and empiricism in general. The book would be incomplete however without its final chapter which provides suggestions and insights into the clinical applications and implications of their combined research.</p>