Page:The International Journal of Psycho-Analysis III 1922 1.djvu/45

 PLEASURE, IN SLEEP AND DISTURBED CAPAQTY FOR SLEEP 37

drawing the farther conclusion that the pathological regression of the libido can pass directly to the lethargic stage; the hysterical sleep illness described by Charcot would be an example of this. Certain peculiarities of this illness, the tendency to attacks of spasm and inhibitions of breathing, throw a greater light on the part played by this stage. However, such considerations are outside the scope of this investigation.

2. The next example is of an amazing disturbance of the ability to sleep to which was partly due the fatal termination of the case. I did not obtain my knowledge of the history of this illness from an analysis carried out in an orthodox manner. But I had known the patient for more than fifteen years; and her physical and mental development had been entrusted to my care during this period. I was also able to observe directly the circumstances of her decease. This can be taken as equivalent to the results of an analysis.

The neurotic predisposition of the patient was clearly manifested, if only in the difficulties of her education when a child. The years up to the latency period were characterised by a loi^ tarrying in different forms of auto-erotism, among them a strong oral manifestation of the libido. The suppression of the component instincts did not take place evenly; a certain precocity remained as the residue of considerable infantile aggressive tendencies (set free by the excessive tenderness of her father). When she had grown up into a beautiful and admired girl a peculiar narcissistic condition developed. 3he was almost defenceless against the homage of admirers, and she was disarmed by every interest shown her, so that she was erroneously considered to be of a very sensual nature which had to be watched. This was really not necessary, because she never over-stepped the prescribed limits. She treated her affairs with remarkable openness and told them with evident pleasure. It was her wish to be loved and hear others talk about her. The social environment in which she lived offered no opportunity for much mental development. Her first difficulties commenced with her marriage. She failed to enjoy sexual feeling, which came as a surprise to her relatives. She proved to be frigid. She soon complained of strong aversion to the sexual act, although she loved and highly esteemed her husband. A constant restlessness, associated with hypochondriacal and anxiety conditions took possession of her, and without