The Analyst's Personal Equation

Compiled and edited from lectures on Psychoanalytic Technique given by the late Karen Horney at the American Institute for Psychoanalysis during the years 1946, 1950, 1051 and 1952. Further lectures in this series will appear in subsequent issues of the Journal.

The purposes of this topic are firstly, an evaluation of those qualities which characterize a good analyst, and secondly, a consideration of neurotic remnants in analysts and how their work is affected thereby. Mention also will be made of some of the psychological difficulties inherent in the unique relationship which exists between analyst and patient.

1. Every good potentiality is helpful, especially maturity, directness, discernment and objectivity.

2. Gifts are difficult to describe, but among them would be a real interest in and for the patients, and for their practical as well as psychological problems.

3. A most desirable quality is a prevalent striving toward self-realization, and an honest wish to help patients toward their self-realization.

4. Important is a capacity for healthy emotional involvement with the patient.

5. Indispensable is a searching mind with an untiring curiosity about challenging problems. An example is that of a patient who had been working quite seriously on his power drive. Apparently he had tackled its pervasiveness, consequences, etc. but very little change took place in its attraction for him. His analyst was not content with, “You're doing all right in your approach, but it takes time,” and sundry other semi-rationalizations which a less curious analyst might have made. Instead, he thought intently about it on his own, and came to the realization that the patient was not fully aware of the intensity of his drive toward glory. When this was brought into the picture and felt by the patient, he began to resolve the problem.

Intellectually we all are convinced of self-realization as a goal. However, if the striving for it is not a real living experience in the