Transference Interpretation in the Psychotherapy of Borderline Patients: A High-Risk, High-Gain Phenomenon (original) (raw)

The paper explores the controversial effectiveness of transference interpretation in the psychodynamic psychotherapy of borderline personality disorder (BPD) patients. It identifies three key emerging trends: interpretive approaches should be reserved for patients with higher ego strength, a robust therapeutic alliance is crucial, and expressive and supportive techniques can complement each other rather than opposing. The study underscores that various patient characteristics, including cognitive dysfunction, early trauma, and interpersonal patterns, significantly influence the effects of transference interpretation, pointing to a need for therapists to balance expressive and supportive strategies.