Character Structure and the Organization of the Self, by Lawrence Josephs. New York:  Columbia University Press, 1992,  332 pages, $50.00.

In writing this text, Dr. Josephs has taken on the controversial task of integrating multiple theoretical perspectives with the purpose of developing a more unified theory of character structure. As stated in the introduction, his aim is to “… propose that a model of self organization provides the superordinate framework within which other (major psychoanalytic conceptualizations) of character structure can be most fruitfully embedded.” Despite familiar arguments against attempts at integration, this effort may be considered required reading for those interested in the juxtaposition of concepts in psychoanalytic theory development, conceptual compatibilities, and the clinical applicability of delineating character styles.

The first part of the book contains a review of the contributions to understanding character found in drive/conflict theory, ego psychology and cognitive theory, object relations theory, interpersonal theory, and self psychology. Consistent with the aim of proposing a superordinate model of self organization, Dr. Josephs' integration weaves through his discussion of other theoretical perspectives. Infusion of the language of self-experience begins in the opening pages as he discusses a Freudian formulation:

Though Freud granted each individual an absolute freedom of self-expression in fantasy, such freedom came at a price of self-alienation in the division of personality into conscious and repressed unconscious aspects, (p. 10)

From a clinical standpoint, the integration of two perspectives in this excerpt connects the dynamic interplay of intrapsychic agencies to an experience near potentially affect-laden phenomenon. From a theoretical standpoint, this presentation of conceptual synthesis avoids the risk of theoretical anachronism if the reader remains aware that this is an innovative, integrative effort, and distinguishes the author's perspective from that of the primary source(s) being discussed.

Language is only one vehicle used to integrate persp