How can we Study the Efficacy of Psychoanalysis?

Psychoanalytic efficacy has been demonstrated in general, but not in comparison with other therapies, nor with detailed study of the relationship between process and outcome. The steps necessary to accomplish such studies are outlined, along with a review of our present readiness. Crucial dimensions of such work are explored, including the use of single case studies, and ways of looking at sequences of interaction between analyst and patient as they change during various phases of treatment. Methods of using control and comparison groups and follow-up studies are described, and various promising specific strategies are proposed.