Understand Transference: Unconscious Emotions That Affect Relationships and Therapy

Transference

the transfer of feelings to a psychoanalyst of love or anger that had been originally directed to a patient’s parents or other authority figures

Transference is a psychological phenomenon that occurs when a person unconsciously transfers their feelings, emotions, and attitudes from one person (usually from a past relationship) onto another. In a therapeutic setting, transference often occurs between a patient and their therapist, where the patient may transfer unresolved feelings or conflicts from past relationships or experiences onto their therapist.

For example, a patient may develop intense feelings of love or hatred towards their therapist due to the similarities between their therapist and a past romantic partner or authority figure. Transference can also occur in everyday life, such as when a person unconsciously reacts to someone in a certain way because they remind them of someone from their past.

The therapist’s role in managing transference is extremely important. They must recognize when transference is occurring and handle the situation with care and empathy, as it can be very emotionally charged for the patient. The therapist may use the therapeutic relationship to help the patient distinguish between past experiences and current realities, leading to a resolution of the transference and an opportunity for healing.

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