Jungian Analyst Polly Young-Eisendrath Honored for Conflict Resolution

The recognition coincides with the launch of the Center for Real Dialogue, a nonprofit initiative that serves as the current focal point of her work. By integrating depth psychology with Buddhist mindfulness, the organization aims to provide a framework for managing volatile disagreements. Dr. Young-Eisendrath, who holds a PhD in Development and Counseling Psychology from Washington University, views this center as her primary legacy. Her approach emphasizes that conflict often stems not from inherent malice, but from a fundamental lack of communication skills.

Her methodology, detailed in her forthcoming book, "Humanizing Our Conflicts through Real Dialogue," encourages individuals to pause and cultivate perspective during high-stakes interactions. This philosophy extends to her academic history, which includes clinical faculty roles at the University of Vermont and Bryn Mawr College, as well as a 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Canadian Psychological Association. Beyond her scholarly contributions, she continues to reach a broader audience through her podcasts, "Enemies: From War to Wisdom" and "Waking Up is Not Enough," and an online course designed to foster wiser, more confident communication.