The violent mind

John Bryant

doi:10.9791/ajpanz.2006.08

John Bryant

DOI: https://doi.org/10.9791/ajpanz.2006.08

Abstract

This article will discuss the complex interaction of experience and biology in the formation of the violent mind. The practice of psychotherapy reflects the philosophical emphasis of hermeneutic phenomenology upon sensitivity and relationship to lived experience. Phenomenology searches for pre conscious experience. Hermeneutics shapes meaning and gives significance to such phenomena. This commentary emphasises themes of shame, fathering and remorse as they arise from a series of insightful interviews with men about individual experiences of violence. The influences of neurobiology and attachment theory are used to understand the dynamic forces behind these themes and the role that neurobiology and attachment theory play in understanding violence.

Author Biography

John Bryant

As recorded in 2006.

John Bryant is a private practitioner in Grey Lynn and Titirangi, Auckland. He is also a process group facilitator, teacher and supervisor. He runs workshops with a focus upon neurobiology, attachment theory and psychodynamic psychotherapy. He has a special interest in working with adults, teenagers and couples in the area of anger and related issues such as sexual problems, depression, anxiety and insecure attachment. He is married to Monique and has a busy family life with four children ranging from 20 to 6 years of age living at home. He seeks lots of good personal therapy to cope with that lot. shrink@ihug.co.nz