Transference serves a dual purpose: gratification, and defense against trauma. The latter function lies in the individual's attempt, in the transference relationship, at reparative mastery of the traumatic failure of his infantile dependent period. In this scheme, the mental apparatus is conceived as a safeguard with the crucial function of maintaining homeostasis (overcoming the destructive effects of trauma) in a way strictly analogous to Selye's theory of disorganization and physiological shock. In both physiological and psychological trauma, counter-shock mechanisms are mobilized. Infantile traumata therefore are instrumental in creating the base for future transference.