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Masochism and the Self
This volume provides an integrative theory firmly grounded in current psychology of the self, and offers a fresh, compelling account of one of psychology's most enigmatic behavior patterns. Professor Baumeister provides comprehensive coverage of historical and cross-cultural theories and empirical data on masochism and presents recent, original data drawn from a large data set of anonymous masochistic scripts of fantasies and favorite experiences. Drawn from the latest social psychological research and theories, Professor Baumeister returns the emphasis to the original and proto-typical form of masochism -- sexual masochism - - and explains these phenomena as a means of releasing the individual from the burden of self-awareness.
It is the first volume to present a psychological theory compatible with the mounting evidence that most masochists are not mentally ill nor does masochism derives from sadism. Instead, Professor Baumeister finds that masochism emerges as an escapist response to the problematic nature of selfhood and he attempts to foster an understanding of sexual masochism that emphasizes both "escape from self" and "construction of meaning" hypotheses.
The book is directed at all those interested in the self and identity in paradoxical behavior patterns and in the construction of meaning, presenting specific clinical recommendations.
It is the first volume to present a psychological theory compatible with the mounting evidence that most masochists are not mentally ill nor does masochism derives from sadism. Instead, Professor Baumeister finds that masochism emerges as an escapist response to the problematic nature of selfhood and he attempts to foster an understanding of sexual masochism that emphasizes both "escape from self" and "construction of meaning" hypotheses.
The book is directed at all those interested in the self and identity in paradoxical behavior patterns and in the construction of meaning, presenting specific clinical recommendations.
Hardcover
First published March 1, 1989
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About the author
Roy F. Baumeister
82 books464 followersDr. Roy F. Baumeister is Social Psychology Area Director and Francis Eppes Eminent Scholar at Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida. He is a social psychologist who is known for his work on the self, social rejection, belongingness, sexuality, self-control, self-esteem, self-defeating behaviors, motivation, and aggression. And enduring theme of his work is "why people do stupid things." He has authored over 300 publications and has written or co-written over 20 books.
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
January 4, 2019
Why is this so poorly rated? It's a fascinating book with a lot of insights, really narrowing things down to the most fundamental elements; the most basic building blocks that prompts one to escape the self through masochistic submission.
July 5, 2020
📖 An academic look at masochism and its effects on the self, specifically self-perception. I admire the author’s bravery for digging into a rarely explored topic. The book would’ve been five stars from me if the author had been able to acquire more research and specific examples for theories stated.
February 23, 2020
This book offers a lot of insight into the notion of "self" and masochism-related kinks and fetishes. All of the arguments are well-supported with data, and the conclusions are reasonable.
November 22, 2014
A fresh take on Masochism as a perversion and it's connection to sadism.
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews