Neutrality, abstinence, and the therapeutic alliance

Concepts of neutrality and abstinence are discussed in terms of the variant opinions about them, pro and con, with particular reference to efforts to dispense with them based on the unavoidable role of the analyst's personal influence and subjectivity in the analytic process. Stereotypes of both neu trality and abstinence are examined, and the therapeutic alliance establish ed as the most appropriate context within which to articulate the essential and constructive role of effective analytic neutrality and abstinence. The alliance is not possible without the persistent exercise of both neutralit y and abstinence; conversely, other components of the alliance are intended to facilitate and preserve neutrality and abstinence on the part of both a nalyst and analysand. These elements are essential factors in effective ana lytic practice.