Analysts in the Trenches: Streets, Schools, War Zones

The horrific events of 9/11 and its sequelae have reinforced what thoughtful analysts have long known: that they have a responsibilty to respond to the complex social and emotional issues arising in their communities - to function, that is, as "community psychoanalysts." Analysts in the Trenches vividly illustrates what socially engaged analysts can offer to violent and disturbed communities. Contributors bring analytic expertise to bear on the emotional sequelae to violence, including sexual and physical abuse; to multiple and traumatic losses; and to learning inhibitions. Thay also explore and devise community responses to the scapegoating of classes and groups, to homelessness, and to variations in family structures. This volume provides heartening testimony to the relevance of psychodynamic thinking in the post-9/11 world and will spur professional readers to develop their own programs of community involvement.

Bruce Sklarew, M.D., is Principal Investigator, School-Based Mourning Project, Wendt Center for Loss and Healing, Washington, DC.

Stuart W. Twemlow, M.D., is Director, Peaceful Schools and Communities Research Program, Menninger Clinic, and Professor of Psychiatry, Baylor School of Medicine, Houston, TX.

Sallye M. Wilkinson, Ph.D., teaches as the Greater Kansas City Psychoanalytic Institute.