Healing the Shame That Binds You by John Bradshaw (1988, Paperback)

great book that look that the indept thinks that causes shame in human beings.This classic book, written 17 years ago but still selling more than 13,000 copies every year, has been completely updated and expanded by the author."I used to drink," writes John Bradshaw,"to solve the problems caused by drinking. The more I drank to relieve my shame-based loneliness and hurt, the more I felt ashamed."Shame is the motivator behind our toxic behaviors: the compulsion, co-dependency, addiction and drive to superachieve that breaks down the family and destroys personal lives. This book has helped millions identify their personal shame, understand the underlying reasons for it, address these root causes and release themselves from the shame that binds them to their past failures

I thought it would be helpful to someone as were "Toxic Parents" and "Healing from Family Rifts". This appears to be more of a textbook for a college course than a self-help book. Concepts are correct, however, the writing is purposefully written to be "above" the average person who needs this sort of assistance and guidance. Just my personal opinion, following 23 years of counseling.

I've read it before. I really liked it, and I want to read it again. It defines the problem and the symptoms that it causes really well. It is difficult to face the pain that shame has caused in my life, and everyone that my life has touched. I'm looking for healing again.

Pain came out as anger as I was reading this book. My relationship with my Family changed in a negative way, until I could except the ones that have caused me so much pain and forgive them. I will not be bullied and manipulated again, just as I am trying not to do the same to others.

John Bradshaw is the best!! His books have led me to more understanding and more help than any books/author I have ever read! He is amazing!

This book was recommended by the author of a book I was reading that dealt with the ten laws of abundance. This is a good book in dealing with the reality that there are alot of disfunctional families and that shame is an issue that the majority of people will deal with on different levels in their lifetime. If you have noticed behavior in yourself or other adults that seems almost childish in nature, this book explains why that occurs. The author had to face and conquer his own issues of shame. In doing this the author breaks down shame into segments starting with the causes in early childhood, the addictions it causes, and later explains how to overcome them. I like the book and would recommend it if you are looking for a broader understanding of the reasons behind some of your automatic behavior patterns. I also liked that it brings to light a better understanding of the causes of addictions such as food, alcohol, drugs, etc. It is an intellectual read, so if you are used to an easy read, you will have to adjust slightly to his style.