A marriage and family therapist, and associate professor at NYU's Ehrenkranz School of Social Work, Siegel became interested in neurobiology, the connection between the brain and emotions, when she saw first-hand the self-destructive impact of overreactions on not only those who suffer them, but on their family, friends, and co-workers as well. Using extensive research, poignant and identifiable case studies from her own 30 years of clinical experience, and pointed inquiries and exercises, Siegel painstakingly examines the why and how of overreacting. Since "mind and body, present and past are all parts of the puzzle that make up an emotional overreaction," the memories and defenses we have assembled since childhood, coupled with the way our parents dealt with problems and handled stress, help determine whether we "cry, rage, withdraw or become deeply pessimistic" when pushed to react. With analysis for understanding what triggers these behaviors, chapters that tackle stressful home and workplace situations, and methods for challenging old emotional memories and harmful family myths or expectations, Siegel's call to action will help overreactors, and anyone who suffers them, to stop.
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