That which patients bring to analysis.
In this paper it is suggested that patients bring to analysis their damaged inner objects, and not only themselves, to undergo reparation because they are unable to do it. Stress is put on the very complex mechanisms used to keep damaged and dying inner objects alive whilst waiting for help to come. The contrast between concrete repair and psychic reparation appears to be very important and the defences necessitated by failed reparation efforts are described. Failed reparation manoeuvres must not be confused with resulting defences. Examples are given for various levels of personality organizations and pathology, including neurotic, borderline, psychotic, psychosomatic and hypochondriacal patients. A group of six neurotic patients is included.