The subliminal psychodynamic activation method (SPA), used in testing psychoanalytic propositions, has been subject to recent criticisms regarding methodological weaknesses. A review of the literature relating to this method can be helpful in determining the validity of these criticisms and the potential usefulness of the SPA method in testing such theoretical constructs as intrapsychic conflict and wishes for merger. A critical examination of such methodological elements as measures used to assess changes in psychopathological symptomatology and the specific stimuli used to effect these changes revealed that methodological weaknesses do exist, particularly in relation to the measures used to assess the effects of subliminal stimulation on psychopathological symptomatology and in the comparisons of stimuli. Specifically, in studies with both schizophrenic and nonschizophrenic populations, no validity data were reported in the literature for any of the measures used. In spite of the limitations in interpreting the results of SPA studies, however, the SPA method has been shown to be effective in producing specific results in a variety of diagnostic groups. Additionally, this method has given further evidence of the unconscious nature of intrapsychic processes. In this way, the SPA method has at least given evidence that the pursuit of testing psychoanalytic constructs is a worthwhile and plausible effort with important implications for both the theory and treatment of psychopathological symptomatology. A five-page reference list is provided. (NB)