Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
transference
The unconscious redirection of feelings from one person to another, especially from patient to analyst during therapy.
Full Definition
A fundamental psychoanalytic concept describing the process by which patients unconsciously transfer feelings, attitudes, and expectations from past relationships onto their analyst. This phenomenon is considered essential to the therapeutic process as it provides insight into the patient's internal world and relationship patterns. Transference can be positive, negative, or erotic, and its interpretation forms a cornerstone of psychoanalytic technique.
Usage
Usage note: Always lowercase unless beginning a sentence. Avoid confusing with countertransference, which refers to the analyst's feelings toward the patient.
In Context
- "The patient's transference to the analyst revealed unresolved conflicts with her father." — Case study report
- "Analysis of transference patterns indicated a shift from negative to positive therapeutic alliance." — Clinical notes
Also known as
transferential relationship
Contrasted with
countertransference
Don't confuse with
countertransference
projection