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This book has broad sweep and a high aim. It is the credo of a sincere searcher into the human psyche. If Flescher had been content to present the principles of psychoanalysis and their application in the treatment of neuroses, based on many years of experience here and in Europe, the book would represent a commendable addition to psychoanalytic writing.
Where the book falls short, as this reviewer sees it, is in those chapters where the author tries to show how neuroses can be prevented. Some of the shortcomings may be found in his stressing theoretical aspects of psychoanalysis which are still highly controversial, as for instance the importance of the death instinct. In addition, Flescher's views on aggression and on the effect of parental restrictions in the development of neuroses, seem to be overemphasized. This is certainly important in view of the fact that the book is addressed to the public.
The book, which is well-indexed and which contains a glossary and bibliography, consists of five parts. Instincts and Environment in Childhood, gives an introduction to Flescher's view on aggression. Normal Psycho-Instinctual Development and Abnormal Development and Psycho-Instinctual Disorders, form the solid backbone of the book and give evidence of the author's wide experience in the theory and clinic of psychoanalysis. With Principles of Psychic Health, Flescher reaches the point where he has to make good his promise: Mental Health and the Prevention of Neurosis. It seems that he uses the term, 'mental health' and 'psychic health' interchangeably.
An important concept for Flescher regarding the development and prevention of neurosis is found in inhibitions, restrictions, and deprivations by parents. He uses the concept of the superego either explicitly or implicitly as a 'too-harsh superego', as a psychic instance which is as severe and interfering with the gratification of the child as he describes the parent prior to the formation of the superego. For in