HOUSE OF CARDS
Psychology and Psychotherapy Built on Myth

"In this trenchant and witty look at the therapy profession today, the noted psychological researcher Robyn Dawes critically examines some of the most cherished clinical assumptions and therapeutic methods now in use. As he points out, it is commonly believed, for example, that self-esteem is an essential precursor to being a productive human being, that events in one’s childhood determine one’s fate as an adult, and that ‘you have to love yourself before you can love another.’ Through a careful examination of research on these issues, Dawes systematically shows that these commonly held assumptions are largely untrue. Most who suffered unhappy childhoods go on to lead healthy, productive adult lives, and those with little or no self-esteem are still often remarkably effective human beings. Dawes then explores the debilitating effect these beliefs have on us, showing their inadequacy in addressing the serious social and psychological problems we face in this country today.

"The author takes issue with many of the treatment methods and beliefs that undergird therapy practices. Again, drawing on research, Dawes shows that Rorschach tests are bogus, that greater clinical experience does not make for a better therapist, and that, in fact, those with little experience and little training are often as effective as the credentialed, high-priced doctor. He also takes issue with the professed predictive powers of the therapist, showing that statistical analyses are better predictors of a client’s future behavior than the supposed clinical expertise of the professional. He goes on to address the fraudulent claims of the psychologists who act as expert witnesses, showing that their false expertise presents a real threat to justice in the courtroom. In addition, he challenges current licensing procedures that, he argues, create huge costs and wrongly protect professionals from a healthy scrutiny of their practices. His is a provocative and controversial, but well supported, argument—and one that will command attention" (jacket cover).

Dr. Robyn M. Dawes is a professor at Carnegie-Mellon University and is a widely recognized researcher on psychology and psychotherapy. Although this is a secular, academic book, it is readable and presents much scientific evidence, which supports our position about psychoheresy. (See Study Materials Sheet to order.)

PAL V10N5 (September-October 2002)

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