Reclaiming the Authentic Self: Dynamic Psychotherapy with Gay Men [Hardcover]

Carlton Cornett (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 7, 1977 | ISBN-10: 1568213956 | ISBN-13: 978-1568213958

American culture is overwhelmingly heterosexual, filled with the symbolism, rites of passage, and rituals that affirm and strengthen heterosexual identity. Homosexuality is scorned, disparaged, and treated with contempt in myriad subtle and obvious ways. The homosexual boy who becomes the homosexual man is bombarded by assaults on his identity and self-esteem. In this milieu of rejection, the homosexual man cannot help but internalize some self-hatred. Taking in society's contempt for him leads the gay man to become alienated from who he essentially and authentically is. In an attempt to achieve some acknowledgment, he often adopts a false self more pleasing to his parents and the larger culture. However, hiding his personality behind a veneer completes his alienation from the true self underneath. As Carlton Cornett ably demonstrates in Reclaiming the Authentic Self, to be successful with the gay man, dynamic psychotherapy must focus on the creation of an environment that invites the patient to discover and create his authenticity. In addition to allowing this true self to be revealed, the work must involve the integration of feelings and values that previously were rejected in order to minimize narcissistic injury. The psychotherapeutic environment also must acknowledge the gay man's constant struggle to maintain his identity in a hostile world that continues to reject who he is.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 224 pages
• Publisher: Jason Aronson, Inc. (July 7, 1977)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1568213956
• ISBN-13: 978-1568213958
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.7 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,469,649 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An insightful book on the psychology of gay men, December 23, 1997

By A Customer

This review is from: Reclaiming the Authentic Self: Dynamic Psychotherapy with Gay Men (Hardcover)

Carlton Cornett has written an important book that provides a more current way to view the therapy and mental health of gay men. This client population has for far too long been labeled as pathological by psychiatrists and other therapists. His clear and thoughtful text is supported by a series of realistic and insightful summaries of his clinical work. Nothing instructs people as well as real-world examples of how discussed principles are applied. This book is well worth a professionals time and of interest to gay men who are not therapist.