The elements and features of transference are a real and frequent phenomenon within most therapeutic settings but is also a very common dynamic in our relationships. Despite its prevalence in our social interactions, most people are unfamiliar with the term and its importance. Originally identified by Sigmund Freud as a key to the therapeutic relationship, transference continues to play a roll in almost all therapeutic interventions and connections, whether intentionally or unintentionally.
As it relates to clinicians, transference occurs when people in therapy transfer positive and/or negative feelings, which they had toward some significant person in their past, onto the therapist. More broadly speaking with respect to our relationships, transference is simply the projection of the personal beliefs individuals hold with respect to themselves and the world.
Why is transference so important as part of the therapeutic intervention? First, it helps individuals understand the world and themselves. Second, it predicts or anticipates how individuals interact with the world. Third, since individuals bring those aforementioned beliefs to most situations, they also bring them to therapy, as they try to predict what may happen and attempt to control what will occur throughout the therapeutic process.
Transference may be verbal or behavioral and can be positive or negative. For example, if an individual has low self-esteem, the fear could be that the therapist, friend, or family member will find them “sub-par” or will perhaps punish them. Individuals may also revere or despise the therapist or companion because he or she reminds them of a parent who they revered or despised. Another example occurs when individuals are not truthful with the therapist or a companion because they feel he or she will judge them, based on their past experience with an overly critical parent. Along the same lines, they may hold back information or attempt to reveal only positive information so the therapist or friend will pass positive judgment.
In a therapeutic setting, a positive transference can show up in individuals whose belief system is ultimately optimistic and who feel constructive affection is key to our society. These people are likely to believe that the therapist will have positive, constructive feelings towards them, and will in turn have those feelings for the therapist. Conversely, if the individuals’ conviction is negative, believing people and the world are hateful, they will likely expect the therapist to punish or dislike them.
Because our own lifestyle convictions and methods of operation are a constant dynamic in our emotion expression and behaviors, it is vital to understand how transference affects not only the therapeutic relationship but also the relationships with our friends and family. By doing so, we will have a more honest and authentic connection and in turn more satisfying, enriching relationships.