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Reik approaches the much discussed problem of masochism from a new angle. He raises the elementary questions: 'Are we in fact right in saying that the masochist has replaced the common instinctual aim of "pleasure" by another? What is the actual course of events in all the psychic phenomena which we classify under the term "masochism"? Are there traits common to every type of masochistic expression? or is it, in fact, impossible to trace such common characteristics?'
In his endeavour to answer these questions, Reik points out that, wherever there is any question of masochism, three characteristics stand out: (1) the special significance of phantasy; (2) the factor of suspense; (3) the demonstrative feature.
The excessive rôle played by phantasy is undoubtedly the most interesting psychologically. Reik is so convinced of the preponderance of phantasy in masochism that he doubts whether unimaginative people become masochists. Although all perverted sexual excitement demands a certain preparation in phantasy, in the masochistic perversion