Table 55–1 displays three common transference/countertransference patterns that may arise in the treatment of avoidant personality disorder. First, the patient's sensitivity to criticism by self or others may lead him or her to avoid significant topics that would otherwise precipitate the associated feelings of diminished self-esteem. The therapist may be hesitant to say anything that might be experienced negatively, thereby avoiding issues that underlie the problem in self-esteem regulation. However, to collude with this avoidance keeps the therapy from addressing core issues that require emotional elaboration, exploration, and understanding leading to change.