Traditional models of psychotherapy and couples' therapy have often fallen short in trying to reach men—and in recognizing patterns of both defenses and strengths that men bring with them into relationships. This online course will focus on the contemporary and creative perspectives on male psychology and particularly on how to reach men and bring out their best qualities in relationships.
The latest research and clinical findings about working with men coalesce into clear descriptions of how the psychological pressure of "non-masculine" affect compels men to do something immediate and powerful to escape from their discomfort. When men do not have a language to describe or make sense of their experiences (even to themselves), they drink, they criticize, they engage in unfulfilling sex, they emotionally withdraw. And they often turn their negativity on the perceived "source" of the bad feelings: the women and children in their lives.
Interweaving the latest theory and research about men's psychology, Dr. Wexler's articles and chapters will illuminate men's issues from a compassionate, self psychological perspective. Particular emphasis will be placed on the "broken mirror" phenomenon and research about the ways in which men experience women as being powerful and turn to women excessively for validation of the self. The material will also focus on learning about language and imagery that make sense to men and helping them frame positive changes as part of a "masculine" narrative.
The course is comprised of seven book chapters and articles from Dr. Wexler's books, When Good Men Behave Badly: Change Your Behavior, Change Your Relationship; Is He Depressed or What?: What To Do When The Man You Love Is Irritable, Moody, and Withdrawn (New Harbinger, 2006), and STOP Domestic Violence: Innovative Skills, Techniques, Options, and Plans for Better Relationships. Article #1, "Good Men and Broken Mirrors," reviews the impacts of shame on men as well as the "Broken Mirror" concept. Article #2, "The Power of Women," explores the impacts that women have on the men in their relationships (both positive and negative). Article #3, "Odysseus, Relational Heroism, & Imaginary Crimes," identifies ways in which men can learn to relate differently in relationship and increase confidence and self-esteem as a result. Article #4, "Guy Talk," reviews the ways in which men learn to apply these new principles and skills in their own unique way, through candid "male" conversation. Article #5, "Male-Type Depression: The Guy Who Doesn't Look Depressed," distinguishes covert depression from the normative overt depression that is generally diagnosed. Article #6, "Helping Him with Treatment: Psychological," identifies ways in which spouses and partners can assist their male loved ones to learn new coping strategies to improve self and relational function. Article #7, "The Rules of Engagement," outlines what contemporary research shows to be the most effective strategies for the treatment of men who have been violent in their relationships.
