The key aspect of this study is the comparison between all the essential concepts of individual psychoanalysis and those of psychoanalysis in small groups. In discussing both of these, the author gains new insights: The impact of the group settings is perceived as a »mild traumatization,» the group is seen as an »intermediate area» in terms of Winnicott. This approach is well-suited for a revival of the discussion on goals and methods of group psychotherapy, a discussion which has been stagnant for some time. The book provides a precise overview of the subject and due to its systematic description and detailed indexes is also very useful as a workbook and a textbook.