Akhtar and Thomson (1982) and Cooper (1981) are both researchers who made important contributions to the field of psychology.
Akhtar and Thomson (1982) co-authored a book titled “The Wounds of Narcissism: A Clinical Study of the Narcissistic Personality Disorder,” in which they explore the clinical features of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and the psychological wounds that underlie it. They argue that NPD arises from early experiences of emotional deprivation, which can result in a fragile sense of self and a desperate need for admiration and validation from others. The authors also discuss various treatment approaches for NPD, including the use of empathic confrontation and the development of a therapeutic relationship.
Cooper (1981) published a book titled “The Narcissistic Vulnerability of the Analyst,” in which he explores the ways in which narcissistic tendencies can influence the practice of psychoanalysis. Cooper argues that analysts who have unresolved narcissistic vulnerabilities may struggle to maintain an appropriate therapeutic stance, leading to ethical violations and potential harm to patients. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and ongoing self-examination for psychoanalysts, in order to avoid the pitfalls of narcissistic vulnerability.
Both Akhtar and Thomson (1982) and Cooper (1981) were influential in their respective fields and made important contributions to our understanding of narcissism and the practice of psychoanalysis.