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Dr. Anderson has written a simple, clear book designed primarily for nurses. It is a book which is intended to bear a message. In a prologue she states that it is 'written of the souls of men' … 'a mirror that on the bases of reflection therein, we may be stimulated further to perfect the comeliness of our lives' and through it … 'acquire facility in the training of our own children who
will in turn bequeath the legacy of understanding, rather than judging'.
The original purpose of the book has been greatly extended. On the dust cover is stated, rather unfortunately, 'Whatever your station in life, your sex or your profession—you will find that Dr. Anderson has had you especially in mind as she has written this book.' It has a short introduction by Dr. Ross McC. Chapman, a biblical quotation and a preface. It is divided into three parts: (1) The Biologic and Social Basis of Behavior. (2) Personality and Adjustment. (3) The Emotions in Relation to Special Fields. There is a glossary and a bibliography. It is illustrated by a series of noseless cartoons by Dorothy G. Stevenson.
In part one the author at least mentions everything. She borrows bits from the theories of many authors. It provides a readable if heterogeneous mixture. Only in the bibliography are the sources given. Body build is stressed as an aid to diagnosis. The difficulties of the child in breaking away from the parents receives considerable attention. One chapter heading is 'Father Competition or the Oedipus Complex'. The mother's attempt to dominate the child is explained as the mother's need for being important and her love for power. In this section the author discusses masturbation and homosexuality without prejudice. The need for an adequate heterosexual adjustment is stressed.
In the second section there is much sound advice to to how to meet such problems as homesickness, overwork, finances, dismissal. Special stress is placed on reactions to love affairs. Sex life is discuss