This book draws out the essence of a range of personality theories in a clear and accessible way, moving from the seminal works of Freud and other prominent analytical theorists, to the stage theories of Erikson and Levinson and the development of personality as it is viewed in existential and person-centred theory. It seeks not only to highlight the salient points of the theories but also to critique them and examine important aspects of personality development neglected by previous books on this topic such as spirituality and the development of racial identity and gender. The book reflects strongly on the context from which the theories sprang and seeks to trace how this context has influenced the theorists and their disciples. It also highlights the similarities between the concepts and structure of many of the theories. The authors, both themselves experienced counsellors and trainers, try to evaluate which elements of the theories can be useful to the work of the therapist in the twenty first century. The book is illustrated by examples from their case work.
