This paper examines the defiant behavior of a woman who rebelled against all aspects of the treatment contract. It is understood that defiance allowed for safe discharge of sadism and was related defensively to the need for control and to the avoidance of feelings of vulnerability and inferiority. The patient's behavior in sessions is seen as an enactment of her intrapsychic struggle to remain intact. Defiance provided structure, allowing her to maintain herself as separate while staying connected through fighting. Only toxicity was syntonic and could be taken in since cooperation suggested being taken over and ceasing to exist. Defiance was self-destructive yet perceived by the patient to be life-affirming. Clinical challenges for the analyst included tolerating powerful induced feelings of incompetence and accepting the patient's need to maintain defensive opposition.