ABSTRACT
A degree of dependence is present in every relationship throughout life. Attachment can be part of dependency but generally it is less exclusive of other relationships. There are degrees, as well as forms, of dependency within the analytic dyad. This chapter explores a few of the many forms, positive and negative, of analytic dependency present in the analytic relationship and the effect this has on the participants. In the closeness inherent in the interactive and interdependent movement within the analytic dyadic process, it would seem that not only is there a dependency in the analysand but also, albeit of a different quality, an analytic dependency in the analyst. Some patients feel shame during the analytic process as a result of exposing their problems, their needs and especially their dependency needs. Resolving of the analytic dependency at the end of an analysis is a vital part of the analytic process.
