Systems-Centered Therapy for Groups

Yvonne M. Agazarian, Ed.D., FAGPA, FAPA, CGP, developed a theory of living human systems and its systems-centered practice. She has authored or co-authored six books and in 1997 she received the Group Psychologist of the Year award from the American Psychological Association, with the following citation: 'She exemplifies the finest in scholarship in the discipline of psychology...Her considerable body of work illustrates the highest blend of creativity and learning.'

'[Dr Agazarian] has produced a volume that is comprehensive, detailed, and filled with delicious controversy. Systems-Centered Therapy for Groups is a major contribution to the theory of group treatment, and takes its place among the giants in the field.'- Anne Alonso, Ph.D.'This absorbing book systematically unfolds Yvonne Agazarian's own form of Systems-Centered Therapy. Her method is an impressive integration of Lewin's field theory, "group-as-a-whole" methodology, and developmental dynamics. The whole amounts to a new and comprehensive system of psychotherapy that repays careful reading. Agazarian's hallmark is a deep understanding of human developmental potential that has been blocked by defences against mental pain and that can be released in psychotherapy.'- Malcolm Pines, M.D., FRCP, FRCPsych'An innovative and comprehensive addition to the field of group therapy.'- Walter N. Stone, M.D.

• Introduction: Autobiography of a Theory -- A Theory of Living Human Systems -- An Overview of the Theory and Its Practice -- Subgrouping -- Boundarying -- Defense Modification in the Phases of Group Development -- Systems-Centered Practice -- The Authority Issue -- Social Defenses -- Cognitive Defenses -- Psychosomatic Defenses -- Masochistic Defenses -- Sadistic Defenses -- Role Relationship Defenses -- Resistance-to-Change Defenses -- The Intimacy Issue -- Defenses against Separation and Individuation -- Life and Interdependency -- Defenses and the Experienced SCT Group