Problem
Case Study-Jerry
Jerry (37), is a third-generation Japanese American man. He has never been married but has been in two relationships, one of which just ended. He works as a radiologist, stating that he contemplated for too long what area of specialty he was going to pursue in medical school, and settled on one of the most competitive field in medicine. He is very successful at his job. His says that his colleagues and friends may label him as being a workaholic. Jerry describes himself as a 'mostly upbeat' and 'sometimes anxious' person, with a good work ethic and is highly introspective. He says that he enjoys his privacy and his space, and that his preference for order in his home may have led to his female partner ending the relationship. He had little patience for any mess that she made that was not cleaned up or tidied away promptly. He also explains that he has always had difficulties with closeness and trusting others. He notes that he is content being single, and doesn't want to be a parent. Jerry is not very close to his family, stating that his mother had him when she was a teen and didn't marry his biological father; he remembers being treated differently compared to his younger siblings (from his mother's later marriage) by his grandparents and uncles. He was not financially (and he notes emotionally) supported through college and medical school. Jerry says that he is coming in for 'self-development' and to just talk to someone.
Using Psychoanalytic Theory and Therapy.
A. What would the theory say is the cause for Jerry's problems?
B. What would a counselor using Psychoanalytic therapy do with Jerry to help him? (Describe an intervention or strategy)