Erik Erikson: His Life, Work, and Significance

Erik H. Erikson is widely considered one of the most influential thinkers to have emerged from the field of psychoanalysis. His work is concerned with the relevance of psychotherapy to the everyday modern world. His significance lies in the issues he addresses, the concepts he provides, and the many still unresolved questions he poses on the relationship of the individual to society. It was Erikson who originated the term 'identity crisis' and this book shows how his theories developed in response to his own life experience. It offers a comprehensive view of Erikson as a person, as a writer and thinker, and as a psychotherapist.

As well as exploring the way Erikson's life and work are connected, this book examines the application of his thinking to contemporary social and political issues, and to current psychotherapeutic and counselling practice. His writings have a humanity and approachability that reach beyond the world of psychotherapy to consider questions fundamental to us all. These include the precariousness as well as the creative resilience of individual and group identities; racial and other forms of discrimination; non-violent conflict resolution; the generation gap; and issues of human development from childhood and adolescence to maturity and old age.

Erik Erikson will be of interest to counsellors and psychotherapists in training and in practice. It is also relevant to members of the caring professions seeking a deeper understanding of their work and its place in society.

Formerly a head teacher, Kit Welchman has worked as a counsellor for twenty years and as a trainer and supervisor. He has led workshops in related areas such as stress management, bereavement, team building and prejudice. He is a parent and grandparent and lives in Shropshire on the Welsh Borders.