rule of abstinence
in classical psychoanalysis, the rule that the patient should abstain from all gratifications that might distract from the analytic process or drain off instinctual energy, anxiety, and frustration that could be used as a driving force in the therapy. Examples of such gratifications are smoking, engaging in idle conversation, or acting out during the sessions, as well as unlimited sexual activity, absorbing interests, and other pleasures pursued outside the sessions. This rule is no longer followed. Also called abstinence rule.