The use of analysis in the treatment of adolescents is fraught with many difficulties. The organization of the ego is so greatly in flux that the transference is unstable. Moreover there is a strong drive toward emancipation. Sexual conflicts at this age do not lend themselves readily to analytic control; the adolescent almost never seeks therapy of his own accord.

Nevertheless, analytic principles are valuable for devising therapeutic techniques. The therapist seeks to become an ally and exert educational influences. Because of the resistances and evasiveness, however, one interview weekly is often best. Contact between the therapist and the parents is essential, even when the parents do not wish it. Although the fantasy of the patient may sometimes be revealed and interpretations made, one must often be content with early withdrawal from treatment as soon as the adolescent is able to hold his own with other adolescents.