Review by Choice Review
Greenspan is a child psychoanalyst who combines expertise in theory, research, and practice. His book should rightly be called "The Early Development of the Ego" since he concentrates on infant development to about age two. The book is a very ambitious attempt at combining biological, environmental, and psychotherapeutic dimensions. Greenspan refers to some of the empirical research on infant development, draws conclusions with regard to psychotherapeutic interventions, and redefines some of the more standard psychoanalytic concepts, such as defense mechanisms of the ego. Of particular mention is his attention to organizational levels and capacities in the early development of the ego. Greenspan's style is succinct and understandable, and his presentation is clear, though more suited to those who are familiar with at least some of the literature in the area. His book should be of interest to any serious graduate student of psychoanalysis, as well as to mental health practitioners involved with early childhood problems. -P. Khanna, Memphis State University
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
