Difference: An Avoided Topic in Practice

Difference is a complex and often disturbing issue. The purpose of this book is to encourage a culture of open enquiry into an emotionally charged subject which, the editors argue, has been largely avoided by the profession. Theoretically psychoanalysis is all about recognition and appreciation of difference, yet the psychoanalytic profession itself does not have a good reputation in this area.This is a courageous collection of papers. All contributors have been prepared to go into print about situations in which difference is a significant element in their work and one around which they have felt uneasy and uncertain as they have found themselves in uncharted territory. Through painstaking analysis of their experience and that of their patients and clients, each contributor provides the reader with some useful insights and guidelines for future reference as well as some clear and stimulating illustrations of effective thinking in strange and disturbing situations. What makes this thinking effective is the demonstrated ability of all contributors to preserve their analytic functioning whatever the circumstances. Differences matter and specific issues that alert us to difference serve as a reminder that difference is always present in the consulting room.