In this paper Blanco tries to clarify the dynamic relations which form the basis of neurotic conflict, symptom formation and psychoanalytic therapy. He uses this opportunity for a discussion of certain related problems and unclear details. We should be very grateful for such an attempt because of the confusion in the literature on this subject.

Against the id impulses, striving for discharge, counterforces of the ego are developed. Their effect is to change either the direction or the aims of the instinct, 'taming', 'canalization', or to block the discharge entirely. Blanco is of the opinion that these counterforces may sometimes be biological in nature. In certain respects these defensive measures can be looked upon less as measures to hinder discharge, than as measures to make a substitute discharge possible under adverse circumstances. That is especially true for 'normal' defenses. 'The difference between a normal and a neurotic individual lies, not in the absence of the defensive system, but in its mode of functioning.' Neurotic