Author(s): Kagan Marilyn & Einbund Neil

Self-help

During their many years of treating patients, Marilyn Kagan and Neil Einbund have identified a universal psychological truth: that we all adopt, at a very young age, emotional defence mechanisms for dealing with new situations and challenges. Over time, these 'defenders of the heart' become entrenched and can stop us from enjoying life's full potential. In this book, Kagan and Einbund analyse the 10 most common emotional defence mechanisms, showing us how to recognise which ones are sabotaging our lives: denial, projection, displacement, humour, sublimation, procrastination, altruism, rationalisation, passive-aggression. Then, in a clear and accessible style that demystifies the psychological jargon, they offer comprehensive strategies for helping us manage our own personal defences. The book contains exercises, quizzes, tests and tips, interweaved with personal stories that will provide inspiration for change.