Psychoanalysis, COVID and Mass Trauma The Trauma of Reality

In this book, constructed as a psychoanalytic diary, the authors reflect on clinical observations from their work with patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, tracking these singular experiences to arrive at a broader understanding of the psychological characteristics of collective trauma. Based on the theoretical framework of their previous book, which focuses on the transgenerational, psychological effects of large-scale social-historical traumas and introduced new concepts such as the "Transgenerational Atmosphere," the authors here explore the trauma itself, especially those deep traumas which affect a large group of people or even the whole of humanity, including pandemics, natural disasters, terrorism, and war. In this volume, the authors progress toward the potential immediate and long-term psychological effects of such trauma, including the possibility of the activation of unprocessed transgenerational traumatic experiences, but also the potential for growth. Rich in clinical material and methodological suggestions, this book will appeal to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, psychoanalysts, and social workers, in addition to professors in other academic disciplines such as sociology, history, philosophy, and anthropology.

Foreword by Vamik Volkan Introduction Part I: Psychoanalytic Diary of the COVID Crisis Part II: The Reality of Trauma, the Trauma of Reality 1. The Reality of Trauma 2. The Atmosphere The Trauma of Reality Summary

Tihamér Bakó is a psychologist, psychotherapist, training psychoanalyst of the Hungarian Psychoanalytical Society, and training therapist for the Hungarian Psychodrama Association. He works in private practice in Budapest. He is the author of many textbooks and articles dealing with trauma, transgenerational trauma, crisis, and suicide. Katalin Zana is a doctor, psychotherapist, psychoanalyst, and a member of the Hungarian Psychoanalytical Society. She is the author of many books and articles on trauma, transgenerational trauma, and creativity. She has a private practice in Budapest.