Aspects of the analytic relationship

In this article the analysand-analyst relationship is investigated from the classical and from the post-classical point of view. This leads to the distinction of four fundamental aspects of the analytic relationship: the realistic relationship, the working relationship, the transference relationship, and the primary relationship. Similarities and differences between these various aspects of the analytic relationship are discussed. Examples of confusion about the aspects are given. Disagreement about the issue is mentioned. Emphasis is laid on one of the four aspects: the primary relationship. Its importance in ordinary psychoanalysis has not received the attention it deserves.