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Although books, on for that matter, papers on the technique of psycho-analysis are few and far between, they all exhibit certain features in common. In the first place they incline to be almost timidly conservative. Only the most generally accepted theories or principles of psycho-analysis are used as a framework for the exposition. To offset this timidity the author has usually some favoured theories or clinical approaches of his own, which he uses to amplify the more stereotyped systematizations. Finally they are without exception sample approaches. A book on technique combining breadth of approach with richness of clinical detail has yet to be written. Of all existing books on the subject it can be said that in accordance with the writer's sense of perspective or judgment the tendencies described above may constitute the main virtues of his work or its chief blemishes. Of Dr. Laforgue's book, which although called Clinical Aspects is essentially a book on technique, it may be said outright that it illustrates many of the advantages and a few of the drawbacks of the methods of approach indicated. And considering the backward state of the literature on this subject one cannot but be grateful for a contribution which combines a safe clinging to the traditional with a frequently refreshing individual point of view.
Dr. Laforgue is a good clinician, and the outstanding merit of his work, particularly for students of psycho-analysis, is the emphasis he lays on practical aspects of the therapeutic process. He pays close attention to the different clinical varieties of resistance and devotes several chapters to their study. He is also adept at singling out the 'Gain through illness, ' paying attention to both primary and secondary varieties. Although it might appear that he is more interested in 'secondary' gain, this is all to the good. Students whose attention is too closely drawn to primary gains are apt to neglect the significance of secondary gain, as if