Sections
Psychodynamic Couples Therapy: Introduction | Projective Identification | Differing Definitions of Projective Identification | Use of Transference in Couples Therapy | The Frame of Object Relations Couples Therapy | Key Points | References | Suggested Readings
Excerpt
Object relations couples therapy is a psychoanalytically
based method of couple treatment that integrates past with present,
conscious with unconscious, and the intrapsychic with the interpersonal.
The object relations approach helps couples discern how past life
experiences as individuals can limit their possibilities in the
present as a couple. It clarifies how unconscious processes can promote
conflict and disappointment. It helps partners take ownership for
how their individual perceptions, fears, and motivations may be
shaping their interactions as a couple. What follows is an explication
of an object relations theory of the couple relationship and the
implications of this theory for couple treatment.