Abstract
The reported study investigated transference across a range of cognitive-behavioural and psychoanalytic therapies. A conceptual analysis of transference definitions identified eight key components which were then utilized to construct an instrument for coding patient and therapist statements. The instrument coded verbatim transcriptions of 40 therapy sessions drawn equally from each of two cognitive-behavioural and two psychoanalytic therapies. The results showed transference references in both cognitive-behavioural and psychoanalytic therapies; but these references were significantly lower in cognitive-behavioural therapies, and psychoanalytic therapies were considered the context par excellence of transference. Therapists in psychoanalytic therapies made a higher number of transference statements and responded more fully to patient references to the therapist. It is suggested that transference does not lessen in cognitive-behavioural therapies if it is not acknowledged or recognized. There was an increase in explicit transference references in late over early sessions of all therapies. The implications of the study's findings are discussed with respect to the resolution of transference, and to patient noncompliance in cognitive-behavioural therapies.
Published Version
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