What is the theme in The Freud Reader by Sigmund Freud?

Patient dynamics is an important theme in the book. In order for psycho-analysis to proceed there are a number of features of the special dynamic between doctor/therapist and patient that must be set up and then maintained. One of these is the sense of confidentiality. People who are accustomed to this will wonder at the apparent breach of discretion that the therapist is asking for - the therapist is asking the patient to open up. The therapist then promises not to tell others, in an effort to make the patient more comfortable. In reality, it is required that the patients speak honestly and openly to the therapist in order for the techniques to work.