The author describes the successful treatment of a case of ulcerative colitis over a period of two and a half years. She suggests certain modifications of classic technique. In the early months of therapy she encourages emphasis on current experiences in order to strengthen the ego, delay development of strong transference, and enhance reality testing. Two or three hours a week are preferable to four or five, at least at the beginning of therapy.

The patient with ulcerative colitis has an anal character structure. But analysis of this patient demonstrated that his problem was oral. He had to secure enough food, prestige, and success to put off the day when he could no longer meet the excessive demands in his bowel and must fail and die.