Some dynamic factors in the problem of aggression.

Abstract

A group of patients formerly labelled “interminable cases” in therapy have been discussed in relation to the problem of aggression. In their regression and repetitive compulsion, these patients have been described as paralleling infants and young children in their behavior. It is found that the disturbance of the mother-infant relationship is the most important factor in the production of aggression. In considering the transference as the equivalent of the mother-infant relationship, certain therapeutic conclusions have been drawn to assist in the treatment of these patients.