Eight clinical case histories are cited to demonstrate that the narcissistic cathexis is responsible for the defence mechanism characteristic of the individual. The dynamically efficient narcissism in one type is concentrated in the super-ego and produces a defence mechanism of introversion;

in another ego-narcissism is stronger and produces projective mechanisms; in a third type intense fear of the super-ego causes a projection of superficial defences, presenting a melancholic symptomatology. In the genesis of the defence mechanism is involved the aggression which hovers between the super-ego and the ego, directed against either the ego or the outer world. By observation of the narcissism within the psychical agencies, a method for treating resistances can be obtained.