The impact of object relations theory on psychodynamic group therapy

Object relations theory is seen as a conceptual framework that adds to the classical Freudian structural theory. The synchrony between the two theories is manifest in psychodynamic group psychotherapy. This paper explores the convergence of these theories, emphasizing concepts from object relations theory and focusing on three major aspects as they appear in therapy groups: the evolution of the transference neurosis, group membership as a transitional phenomenon, and group therapy for the resolution of ego-syntonic character pathology. Examples of patients emerging from schizoid to paranoid and then to depressive positions of ego organization illustrate the concepts.