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In an exploration of the psyche through examination of object representations, the author was impressed by the significant role played by those affects which carry out important object-related functions such as motivators or inhibitors of conduct, devices for communication, and devices for eliciting or inhibiting behavioral responses in others. These are in addition to the commonly accepted function of the affects as discharge processes not necessarily related to objects. After referring to a statement by Freud that, in terms of human psychology, the source of the instincts is of much less importance than is their aim or object, Novey elaborates a theoretical view of the relationship of emotions to objects. The concept is termed 'sentiment' and it defines a complex, basically affective state with admixtures of ideational and potential behavioral and expressive components. Sentiments are composed of a number of emotions and are derived as a repetitive response to a similar stimulus offered by a significant object; for instance, the repeated arousal of the same affect by a mothering person will result in the crystallization of a sentiment in connection with that object. The idea of sentiments is offered in opposition to the frequent usage of emotions as single, pure feelings and as an aid in understanding the close relationship between affect, object, and behavioral pattern.