Heinz Kohut was a psychoanalyst who published a number of influential works in the field of psychology. One of his most well-known works is “The Analysis elfof the Self,” which was published in 1971.
In this book, Kohut introduced his theory of self psychology, which emphasized the importance of healthy self-development in the treatment of psychological disorders. Kohut argued that many psychological disorders arise from a lack of adequate self-structure, which can result from childhood experiences of emotional deprivation, neglect, or trauma.
Kohut proposed that a therapist’s role is to provide a supportive environment in which patients can develop a stronger sense of self. This involves providing empathic understanding and validation, which can help patients to integrate disowned aspects of themselves and feel more whole and integrated.
Kohut’s work was influential in the development of the field of self-psychology, which focuses on the role of the self in psychological functioning. He also made important contributions to the field of psychoanalysis more broadly, particularly in his emphasis on the importance of the therapeutic relationship and the need to adapt therapy to meet the individual needs of each patient.