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The Hampstead Index as an Instrument of Psychoanalytic Research. Joseph Sandler. Pp. 287-291.
Contribution to Discussion. Ishak Ramzy. Pp. 292-296.
Sandler outlines the indexing method used at the Hampstead Clinic. A preliminary set of common categories which would eventually contain much of the case material was drawn up. Greater precision leading to further theoretical discussion and some new formulations have been a secondary gain.
Like other scientists, the psychoanalyst is concerned with modification of theories on the basis of experience. His special training and knowledge of mental processes, his capacity to observe and to suspend judgment are scientific aids to his work. Psychoanalytic material may be grossly overdetermined and the analyst's perception may be distorted. He may have a resistance to progressive integration and modification of concepts. Sandler feels that this resistance can be overcome by cultivation of a critical attitude toward ideas, by discussion with colleagues, and by honest reading of the literature.
In constructing the Index, conceptualizing and categorizing material in terms of psychoanalytic theory resulted in a closer relationship of theory and observation because of keener perception; it revealed gaps in material and some inaccuracies in understanding. Internal psychoanalytic models had to be refined so that they accorded more precisely with observations. The final stage consists of re-evaluation of analytic observation according to revised theoretical formulations. The procedure of constructing an index then falls into line with other scientific methods as a special technique of reality and concept testing.
In the discussion, Ramzy points out the intrinsic work of psychoanalysis as a research method. He carefully traces its logic and its scientific aspects. He feels that the answers to the fundamental questions of psychoanalysis have to be sought within the discipline itself. What is needed for the correction of finding