The Winnicott Tradition: Lines of Development—Evolution of Theory and Practice over the Decades

This volume in a book series on psychoanalytic leaders, provides a geographically global sampler of writing stemming from Winnicott’s complex and paradoxical thinking.

In the first section, on his work and legacy, his thinking is put into a context to reveal something of the origins, significant milestones, contemporary development, and theoretical expansion of his thinking.

In the second section, there is a recognition of the fact that Winnicott privileged clinical work. This section aims to illustrate the evolution of theory, expansion of concepts and applications of Winnicott’s body of work to the clinical situation with both children and adults in a variety of settings which include private practice, the health services and residential programmes in a varied array of settings worldwide.

The third section on applications of Winnicott’s work outside the consulting room celebrates his special capacity as a bridge-builder and as a figure whose work has had a very wide appeal and influence. His work continues to grow in its influence and to an unusual degree it informs the work of allied professionals and those in very many different disciplines, domains of thought and work sectors to that of the traditional clinical ones of health and education. Several chapters indicate how his creativity inspired those in the creative disciplines.

Lastly, the fourth section provides personal reflections and accounts from those familiar with Winnicott’s work or with the man himself and gives the reader an opportunity to experience the evolution of his thinking and influence through the eyes of contributors who have pertinent historical recollections and experiences.