Discussion

Considering the extensive nature of their subject, the authors had to limit themselves severely. The creative potential of group psychoanalysis is enormous both for the analyst and for the individuals in the group. For the analyst there is the opportunity to study group processes as well as explore new therapeutic possibilities.

Creativity can follow two different directions. In getting closer to reality, it is creative to find general laws, simplify the complexities and categorize and classify the enormous varieties of existence. This is generally considered the scientific approach which lends itself to verbal communication and thence to verification. The other direction in which creativity can go is the artistic which enriches man's existence by increasing the consciousness of the variety and uniqueness of every thing and every moment. The scientific approach sees similarities in differences and the artistic approach sees differences in similarities.

Our analytical work requires both. Necessary are guide lines to select what is essential in the therapeutic process, and methods of organizing what transpires in order to record and communicate to others. Without these scientific progress cannot be made. But it is also necessary to realize the varieties of human existence which must be experienced in all their extraordinary uniqueness. As Horney once said, “We have never known this particular moment because it is always different from what we have encountered in the past.” If, as the authors say, we are too habit-bound, nothing but repetition will occur.

The authors mention that creativity is the sole possession of man. I am sure that they do not mean to exclude the creativity manifested