Dr. Horney opened the round table with some remarks on the central significance of human constructiveness and on its crucial relevance for therapy. She reaffirmed her belief that human beings can continue changing and growing as long as they live. This is possible, she said, because of an innate urge in all of us to move toward self-realization. The aim of the therapist, she added, is to stand on the side of his own and his patient's available and potential constructiveness. The therapist must continually support what is constructive in his patient while helping him to undermine all that is neurotic and obstructive to the fulfillment of his potential as an unique human being.

Essential to this process is the patient's constructive cooperation with the therapist. This will enable him to develop a feeling of responsibility and belonging. It will help him to become aware of the broader issues in his life, in the world at large, and ultimately to experience himself as a part of a bigger whole.

—EDITOR