Self psychology interpretation of the Thematic Apperception Test

Self psychology theory of personality has gained recognition as an important contribution to the psychoanalytic understanding of personality. The authors present guidelines for the interpretation of Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) material in accordance with self psychology, and provide as a case example a detailed interpretation of the TAT material of one patient. Material from the therapist's summary of the treatment is provided in support of the self psychology interpretation proposed. The authors encourage further efforts to expand the application of self psychology to the understanding of psychological testing material.