In psychodynamic psychotherapy, a patient begins showing anger toward the therapist which mirrors the hostility she experienced from her father. What psychoanalytic concept does this represent?
- A Countertransference
- B Projective identification
- C Transference ✓
- D Reaction formation
Correct answer: C. Transference
Explanation
Transference refers to the displacement of feelings, attitudes, and expectations from past significant relationships (typically parental) onto the therapist. In this case, the patient's anger toward her father is being re-experienced and directed at the therapist. Countertransference is the therapist's emotional reaction to the patient. Projective identification involves externalising unwanted feelings into another person who then identifies with them. Transference analysis is a core therapeutic tool in psychodynamic therapy.
Reference: Kaplan & Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry, 11th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.