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May 16, 1967. AN OBSTACLE TO CURE IN PSYCHOANALYSIS: A DISCUSSION OF FREUD'S 'ANALYSIS TERMINABLE AND INTERMINABLE'. Jeanne Lampl-de Groot, M.D.
In the course of examining the obstacles to the achievement of psychoanalytic cure, Freud discussed the following factors: 1, a negative therapeutic reaction based on a strong need for punishment; 2, an inability to 'tame' the drives; 3, modifications of the ego stemming from irregular development of its functions; 4, a clash between active and passive tendencies with rejection of femininity. The author examines these factors.
Dr. Lampl-de Groot outlined the developments in psychoanalysis leading to the recognition of the importance of the preoedipal period and of aggression, the distinction between the defensive and autonomous functions of the ego, and the crucial influence of the early mother-child relationship on physical and mental development. In her opinion, these increases in knowledge have not added decisively to the frequency of success in treatment. However, there has been an expansion in the range of disturbances treated by analysis, as well as extension of the goals of treatment to include character change. As character traits are shaped in the first years of life, factors influential in the archaic developmental phases must be considered. Patients with a strong need for punishment and a negative therapeutic reaction often show an initial improvement with the uncovering of their adherence to severe parental demands. As the severity of the