TREATMENT OF THE NEUROSES BY CLASS TECHNIC

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Abstract
Group psychotherapy is not a new method of treating social and mental maladjustments; it has been used for centuries and has been effective in various diseases. In the neurological department it is valuable because it saves time and gives more satisfactory results than brief individual interviews. Patients with neuroses who are intelligent and cooperative, who understand English and are capable of emotional reaction are suitable for group management. The sessions are distinctly informal. After a few preliminary remarks an explanation is given of the effect of various emotions upon some body function. Effects of physical tension upon the nervous system are described, following which instructions are given in methods of relaxation. When patients have been lulled into a tranquil state by suggestion, encouraging statements and suggestions are repeated, and the dynamics of some particularly common symptom are explained. Hypothetical cases are outlined and discussed for their psychological benefit. The importance of symptom production through conflict is emphasized; it is stressed that conflict cannot exist in the presence of understanding. The duality of the personality and the necessity of repression and harmonious compromise are explained. The desirability of dominance of intellectually directed behavior over purely emotional reactivity is emphasized and patients are encouraged to live according to a plan. A detailed written recital of symptoms and personal history is required of each patient, so the mechanism of catharsis is an important one. The mechanism of transference as well as some element of rivalry plays a roll in the production of benefit, but emotional re-education and encouragement from the director and fellow members of the group are most important.

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