The Absent Father Effect on Daughters

The Absent Father Effect on Daughters (2021) explores the lasting psychological impact of literal or emotional father absence through the lens of Jungian analysis. It examines how this absence shapes a daughter’s identity, relationships, and self-worth –⁠ often unconsciously –⁠ by weaving personal stories, myths, and dream analysis into a powerful portrait of the wounded feminine psyche. Ultimately, it offers a path toward healing through inner reconciliation with the lost or idealized father figure.

• Adult daughters of emotionally or physically absent fathers
• Fathers seeking to repair estranged relationships
• Anyone curious about the psychological power of the father-daughter bond

Susan E. Schwartz, Ph.D., is a Zurich-trained Jungian analyst and licensed clinical psychologist. A member of the International Association of Analytical Psychology, she has lectured extensively on Jungian themes across the United States and internationally. Her book The Absent Father Effect on Daughters was honored with the International Association for Jungian Studies Book Award for Best Clinical Book in 2021, and she is also the author of A Jungian Exploration of the Puella Archetype and Imposter Syndrome and the “As-If” Personality in Analytical Psychology.