Michael Westerman

Michael Westerman is an Associate Professor of Psychology at New York University's Department of Psychology, within the College of Arts & Science. His research centers on interpersonal defense theory, which redefines defense mechanisms as problematic interpersonal behaviors disrupting coordinated interaction. This theory emphasizes how defensive behaviors, while functional in the short term, lead to unintended negative consequences in relationships and therapy.

Education:
- A.B. in Philosophy (1971), Harvard University
- Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology (1980), University of Southern California

Research Interests:
Westerman integrates philosophical insights (e.g., Merleau-Ponty, Wittgenstein) with clinical psychology to challenge Cartesian frameworks. His work examines how defensive behaviors breach interactional coordination, particularly in patients with personality disorders. Key themes include therapeutic alliance dynamics, feedforward effects of defenses, and the participatory perspective in psychological theory.

Publications & Contributions:
His work explores case formulations, alliance ruptures, and methodological innovations in quantitative research. Recent studies focus on applying interpersonal defense theory to psychotherapy process and outcomes.

Awards & Affiliations:
- Phi Beta Kappa, Sigma Xi
- Fellowships: Social Science Research Council, NIMH Postdoctoral
- Editorial Roles: Psychotherapy Research, Journal of Counseling Psychology, Journal of Theoretical and Philosophical Psychology

Labs & Collaborations:
Affiliated with the Brief Psychotherapy Research Program at Beth Israel Medical Center, where he applies interpersonal defense theory to clinical practice.