On May 1st, we will begin a discussion of The Collected Clinical Works of Alfred Adler, Volume 8, Chapters XVI & XVII. The following chapter summaries were prepared by Manu Jaaskelainen.
Ch. XVI Medical Course at Urban Hospital -
Lecture No. 10 continues the discussion of the previous case, woman 30. Adler states that "every episode of hysteria is psychologically induced because the patient is imagining an experience that does not exist." The lecture contains a record of a patient-interview, including Adler's interpretative comments made during and after the interview. Adler describes how the client creates her symptoms, but she is not able to see the connection between herself and her symptoms. "She sees merely the results or emotions they engender." However, Adler's final appraisal of the client is positive. If and when she is cured, "she would have done everything necessary herself." The function of the therapist is to help her to find the right track and right questions.
Ch. XVII
Lecture No. 11 presents a case of a woman 35. Adler comments that it is difficult to help the client because she is on a medical pension. He estimates that there are really no more organic hindrances that would prevent work. Adler recommends some educational intervention that would "stiffen her backbone" and would help her abandon her constant preoccupation with the ideas of sickness.
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