Transference

Int J Psychoanal. 2023 Aug;104(4):755-772. doi: 10.1080/00207578.2023.2230765. Epub 2023 Sep 18.

Abstract

The article presents a view of transference from the early versions of transference by Classical/Structural analysts, through a variety of analytic positions that extend and implicitly question the concept of transference. After looking at Brenner and Bird's transference positions, we trace the beginning of relational analysis as articulated by Gill. The differences among several subsequent relational positions are then explicated. Self-Psychology is conceptualized as providing a clarification of Freud's view of narcissism leading to a new perspective on narcissistic transference states. The article concludes by detailing Contemporary Freudian concepts that integrate various object relation positions within an overriding Freudian theoretical structure. The Contemporary Freudian positions in some ways mirror Ogden's attempts to integrate diverse positions.

Keywords: Transference; analytic relationship; contemporary and classical views; object relations.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Narcissism*
  • Transference, Psychology*