The Dating and Relationship Group: 
The Sequential Unfolding of Relational Capacities in Early Development 
 
In our previous group meeting on January 7, 2017, I began describing the complex processes and dynamics involved in early development that set the stage for the potential for intimacy and fulfilling romantic connections in adulthood.  It quickly became apparent that our journey through the chronological development of the child, and the various relational structures laid down as the child negotiates attachment bonds with primary caretakers, would require several groups meetings to review fully and then be able to apply to the relational difficulties commonly experienced in adulthood. 
 
And so, in the next meeting of the "Dating and Relationship Group" on Saturday, January 21, 2017, 12:00 to 1:15 PM, I will continue with my presentation on the sequence of psychological and emotional events occurring in early life that support or detract from the later experience of adult romantic intimacy.  I will elaborate on the important transition in the child's developing mind from a grandiose, narcissistic primal approach to relational connection to the more advanced form of interpersonal involvement known as "self-to-object" relatedness.  This is the transitional event that most relational experts and theorists view as necessary for there to be in adult life an investment in mutual interdependence and sacrifice for the other as opposed to the lingering on of self-interested motives.  Next, we will move into a discussion of how the developing child gains awareness of the other as a separate, distinct entity with whom he or she may engage to discover, create and learn.  Known as "intersubjectivity," this growing awareness organizes the need and potential for mutuality and co-creation.  As we review this developmental sequence of events in detail, how it all corresponds to problems of adult romantic love will be emphasized.


The Men's Group: 
The Major Issues Affecting Men Today 
 
The ever-changing economic, social and political landscape has impacted all demographics, including men, though an understanding of the turbulence men face is often under-emphasized.  Men today are challenged by a wide range of significant factors in numerous realms including, among others, physical and mental health, career and professional life, family life, relationships, and emotional development.  Recently, I have searched the scientific and popular literatures to find data on what men perceive to be the major "issues" impacting them today.  The results of my search may surprise you.
 
In the next meeting of the "Men's Group" on Saturday, January 21, 2017, 10:45 AM to 12:00 PM, I will describe the findings gained form a variety of polls and surveys.  We will discuss how these findings ring true or may not ring true for those participants in attendance.  I also will offer some reflections on the implications of the data I have gathered on the psychological and emotional status of men in contemporary society.   

To register for the January 21, 2017 meetings of the Men's Group (10:45 AM to 12:00 PM) and/or the "Dating and Relationship Group" (12:00 to 1:15 PM):
If you would like to attend one or both of these groups on Saturday, January 21, 2017, please RSVP ASAP to Dr. Tobin at 949-338-4388 or [email protected]. There is a limit of 14 attendees for each group and registrants will be accommodated on a first-come/first-serve basis.  The fee is $25.00 and the location is The Water Garden Business Center, 23421 South Pointe Drive, Suite 130, Laguna Hills, CA, 92653.  Please note that these groups are educational in purpose, not therapeutic, and do not constitute psychotherapy or counseling.
   
 
James Tobin, Ph.D., PSY 22074 | 949-338-4388 | [email protected]