Cognitive-Experiential Theory

Seymour Epstein is Professor Emeritus at the University of Massachusetts, where he has held a position since 1953. His major interest has been in developing an integrative theory of personality, which he has set forth in the present book. Over the past several decades he has conducted an active research program on his theory that has received continuous support from the National Institute of Mental Health and extended support from a Research Scientist Award.

There is no better place than this well-written eponymous book to examine Seymour Epstein's dual-process Cognitive-Experiential Theory and its broad ramifications. It raises a large new set of questions for future researchers to pursue." - Eric Klinger, Professor Emeritus of Psychology, Division of Social Sciences, University of Minnesota, Morris

• Acknowledgments Introduction Part I. The Theory Chapter 1. The Basic Theory: Two Systems Chapter 2. Evidence in Real Life of Two Modes of Information Processing Chapter 3. The Content and Organization of the Experiential System: With an Emphasis on Basic Needs and Beliefs Chapter 4. Motivation Further Considered and Emotions Chapter 5. Interactions Between and Within the Two Systems: Conflict, Compromises, Synergy, Repression, and Dissociation Part 2. Development and Adjustment Chapter 6. Development Chapter 7. Coping and Defense Mechanisms Chapter 8. The Maladaptive Behavior of Everyday Life Chapter 9. Neurosis, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, and Autism Chapter 10. Depression Part 3. Clinical Applications Chapter 11. Psychotherapy 1: Constructive Thinking, Cognitive Therapy, Behavior Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Chapter 12. Psychotherapy 2: Psychodynamic Therapy, Client-centered Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Psychosynthesis, Cognitive-experiential Therapy, Relapse Chapter 13. Psychotherapy 3: Communicating with the Experiential System Communicating with the Experiential System Through the Use of Fantasy Part 4. Broader Implications Chapter 14. Implications