Character traits may be used as defenses, or, 'coping mechanisms' that may be developed by individuals in an exaggerated fashion in order to conceal psychological conflicts. When these mechanisms break down, previously repressed trauma erupts into consciousness. One such trait is selflessness. Les Barbanell examines the transformation of selflessness into the Caretaker Personality Disorder and how it is not always better to give than receive, that being good can go bad, and that the 'disease to please' can even be fatal.

"Les Barbanell reveals a new and shocking defense mechanism that individuals use to hide psychological conflicts. The care taker personality disorder helps explain why an accommodating, sacrificing individual, who is always concerned with others, can end up miserable and feeling incomplete. A must read for anyone in the helping professions." - United States Association For Body Psychotherapy Newsletter

"At the risk of appearing too nice, I recommend this book as a potential source of intriguing ideas about selfishness, selflessness, and understanding the true self." - Nj Psychologist

"Barbanell delineates the pathological side of selflessness and argues, as the title suggests, excessive kindness can serve as a psychological mechanism for concealing emotional problems. Working from a psychoanalytic framework, and supporting his arguments with abundant clinical case material, the author effectively charts the defining characteristics of a heretofore-unrecognized diagnostic category: caretaker personality disorder (CPD). Barbanell acknowledges that aspects of this personality pattern have been noted before, though they have not been thought of as a distinct psychiatric syndrome. The book is organized into three sections: the first deals with the etiology and psychodynamics of CPD; the second offers an extensive presentation of differential diagnosis (one very interesting chapter discusses psychotherapists who manifest CPD); the third looks at treatment. In an appendix, Barbanell offers his Selflessness Personality Scale, which he draws on in his discussion of diagnosis and treatment. Summing Up: Recommended. Graduate students, researchers, faculty, and professionals." - CHOICE