Some Misuses of Analysis as a Way of Life: Analysis Interminable and Interminable 'Analysts'

Analysis is a deeply searching method of research and treatment governed by certain principles and applicable to a number of conditions in a clinical setting. Its use in applied analysis is not discussed. Even within a clinical setting it lends itself to exploitation by character pathology, especially where there is unconscious collusion with the analyst's need for narcissistic invulnerability or his faith in analysis as a way of life. The profession of analysis can be misused to support the former; regarding the latter, a professional style may be inappropriately substituted for the development of a personal style, especially in child-rearing and in marriage. This is particularly likely to occur in non-analytically trained therapists with ambivalent aspirations regarding analysis. The result is a parody of both analysis and real life. Outside the clinical setting analytic antipathy to acting out is used to justify inaction. Analytic antipathy to moral judgements is used to justify inappropriate diagnostic labellings. Analytic antipathy to disapproval is used to justify passivity and permissiveness and substitute 'interpretation' for disapproval and punishment. Finally, selfless understanding is used to avoid mutuality in everyday life.