Defining the narcissistic/borderline couple as "individuals who, when they are together, form a shared couple myth that gives rise to many collective fantasies," Lachkar explicates the network that underlies this type of relationship and demonstrates how two theoretical constructs--self psychology and object relations--can be integrated to create an effective conjoint treatment of marital pathology. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

Family Therapy and Mental Health: Innovations in Theory and Practice shows how family therapy techniques can be used to address the needs of patients and their families dealing with conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, suicide, and addictions. A variety of treatment modalities are used with these problems, including family psychoeducational approaches, the McMaster Model, cognitive behavioral family therapy, brief therapy, and systemic and narrative approaches. There are also complete chapters dealing with special issues such as women and mental health, brain injury, and aging. for this volume's outstanding roster of contributors, visit our Web site at http://www.haworthpress.com To view an excerpt online, find the book in our QuickSearch catalog at www.HaworthPress.com.

Dr. Joan Lachkar examines the origins and early warning signs of the psychological violation she describes as a dance between abuser and abused. She goes on to introduce typologies of each (the narcissistic or passive-aggressive abuser, the unentitled self) and to explore the bases for their collusive attachments.

The coverage of theory, research, and clinical management of personality disorders, incorporating illustrative case examples to enhance understanding, reflects the work of 70 expert contributors who review the latest theories, research findings, and clinical expertise in the increasingly complex field of personality disorders.