orgone therapy
the therapeutic approach of Austrian psychoanalyst Wilhelm Reich (1897–1957), based on the concept that the achievement of “full orgastic potency” is the key to psychological well-being. Reich believed the orgasm to be the emotional-energy regulator of the body, the purpose of which is to dissipate sexual tensions that would otherwise be transformed into neuroses. He further held that the orgasm derives its power from a hypothetical cosmic force, orgone energy, which accounts not only for sexual capacity but also for all functions of life. The psychoanalytic community largely rejected Reich’s highly unorthodox theories and approaches. Also called vegetotherapy.