Psychofarm Podcast Is Psychoanalysis Still Relevant in Modern Psychiatry?
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Oct 21, 2025 Gregory Malzberg, a psychiatrist and author renowned for his practical guides on antidepressant management, dives into the enduring relevance of psychoanalysis in today's psychiatry. He explores major schools of psychoanalytic thought, emphasizing the need for clarity in terminology and practice. The conversation highlights how understanding personality and attachment theories can enhance treatment, especially for complex cases. With insights on the interplay of psychoanalytic concepts and modern medication management, Malzberg defends the value of observational knowledge in clinical settings.
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Playful Disclaimer Opens Episode
- Gregory opens with a light disclaimer about theoretical disagreements and clinician competence.
- He jokes Dr. Fu became paranoid after an energy drink, setting a playful tone.
Formulation Explains Apparent Treatment Resistance
- Lack of psychological formulation often causes repeated, ineffective medication trials.
- Personality and its dynamics explain why some patients fail to improve despite many meds.
Study DSM Personality Sections, Not Just Criteria
- Read the DSM general personality dysfunction section and the alternative model in Section III.
- Use trait-based and dimensional understanding rather than only memorizing named disorder checklists.
