Szondi's theories on the effect of one's genetic heritage on life choices as well as on pathology are examined in this paper. Schicksalsanalysis was an attempt to reveal

the personal inherited endowment forming the biological unconscious substratum of the personality—the "familial unconscious." "Ancestral strivings," originating in the genes, are an impetus directing choices toward external objects. Certain patients suffer from "choice-sickness," i.e., making choices based on these underlying configurations. Traditional transference interpretations are inaccurate and cause serious problems in the analytic relationship. A change in therapeutic technique is needed to make the patient aware of these genetic factors, which will increase the patient's capability for free choice.