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In the early years of psychoanalysis, Freud recommended abstinence to his patients. The purpose was to avoid phases of acting out. However, experience quickly demonstrated that these could not be prevented for too long and are sometimes even positive. This recommendation faded with time although it is still useful at times. This paper discusses the distinction between psychotherapies and psychoanalysis and shows the meaning of the analyst’s ethical stance, which leads him or her to abstain not only from judgments or opinions, but also from friendly relations with patients. The meaning of abstinence has thus changed as analytical discourse has evolved over time.