The psychodynamics of the "holiday syndrome"

The holiday season is clearly a time of great emotional conflict, especially for schizophrenics. Both the occurrence of the holiday season and the psychoanalytic group process itself stimulate regression in the schizophrenic which uncovers the frustration and anger associated with dependency needs. The therapist who understands the pychodynamics set in motion by the holidays and by psychoanalytic group pschotherapy can utilize the content of group interaction during the holiday season to stimulate group process, the expression of mutual concerns, and cohesion among the members.