Freud described two types of regression, one to a more successful type of adaptation in order to avoid a later conflict, the other to a traumatic situation, in order to achieve belated mastery. Though the problems involved are not new Alexander believes that the therapeutic implications of the two types have not been systematically presented.

Both are expressed in the transference. In practice they are usually mixed, but the preponderance of either must be assessed by comparing the transference manifestations with the life-history. The interpretations should express this evaluation by the analyst, since the patient will tend to dwell on the type of material for which the analyst shows interest. Thus if an evasive regression from the Oedipus complex is interpreted with the emphasis on the attempted solution of pregenital problems the patient will continue to dwell on these problems,