Only under the influence of group psychotherapy and group dynamics, as well as communication, interaction, and role theory, were psychoanalytically oriented researchers and practitioners able to uncover the interactionally organized defense mechanisms and incorporate them into practical therapeutic work. The behaviors, actions, and reactions of one partner enable, demand, and stabilize the neurotic conflict defense of the other partner. Often, this process is reciprocal, so that the defense of the first partner is also reinforced by the second. The same applies to the institutionalized forms of psychosocial defense, which are described in the second part of this book. While institutions fulfill vital functions and are essential for survival and differentiated development, they are often particularly suited to reinforce defenses in the process.