by Claudia M. Gold MD (Author), Ed Tronick PhD (Author)
This "profoundly wise"
look at how to foster connections, attachment, and resiliency explains
why working through discord is the key to better relationships. (Sue
Johnson, bestselling author of Hold Me Tight)
You
might think that perfect harmony is the defining characteristic of
healthy relationships, but the truth is that human interactions are
messy, complicated, and confusing. And according to renowned
psychologist Ed Tronick and pediatrician Claudia Gold, that is not only
okay, it is actually crucial to our social and emotional development. In
The Power of Discord they show how working through the
inevitable dissonance of human connection is the path to better
relationships with romantic partners, family, friends, and colleagues.
Dr.
Tronick was one of the first researchers to show that babies are
profoundly affected by their parents' emotions and behavior via "The
Still-Face Experiment." His work, which brought about a foundational
shift in our understanding of human development, shows that our highly
evolved sense of self makes us separate, yet our survival depends on
connection. And so we approximate, iteratively learning about one
another's desires and intentions, and gaining confidence in the process
as we correct the mistakes and misunderstandings that arise.
Working
through the volley of mismatch and repair in everyday life helps us
form deep, lasting, trusting relationships, resilience in times of
stress and trauma, and a solid sense of self in the world. Drawing on
Dr. Tronick's research and Dr. Gold's clinical experience, The Power of Discord is a refreshing and original look at our ability to relate to others and to ourselves.
