Harry Stack Sullivan: Interpersonal Theory and Psychotherapy

by F. Barton Evans III

Harry Stack Sullivan (1892-1949) has been described as 'the most original figure in American psychiatry'. Challenging Freud's psychosexual theory, Sullivan founded the interpersonal theory of psychiatry, which emphasized the role of interpersonal relations, society and culture as the primary determinants of personality development and psychopathology.
This concise and coherent account of Sullivan's work and life invites the modern audience to rediscover the provocative, groundbreaking ideas embodied in Sullivan's interpersonal theory and psychotherapy.

Genres: Psychology, Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis

256 pages, Paperback

First published November 14, 1996

Reviews

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read The Psychiatric Interview in grad school, and one of my psychotherapy supervisors counted Sullivan as one of his primary influences. I learned a lot from the supervision. The book was harder to understand.

After reading Dr. Evans' book, I understand Sullivan *much better*. It is amazing how far ahead of his time Sullivan was.

No matter what your theoretical orientation, I'll bet you dollars to donuts you will learn something new and important if you take the time to read this text. Zero in on Chapters 6 and 7 for Sullivan's approach to assessment and psychotherapy.