Projective identification and working through of the countertransference: a multiphase model

Area of Science:

• Psychoanalysis
• Psychodynamic Theory
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Melanie Klein's unpublished ideas on projective identification.
• Wilfred Bion's container/contained theory.
• Roger Money-Kyrle's perspective on countertransference as transformation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a multiphase model of projective identification.
• To differentiate five distinct subphases of projective identification.
• To enhance the understanding and working through of countertransference.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical development of a multiphase model.
• Differentiation of five subphases: adhesion, penetration, linking, transformation, re-projection.
• Illustration with clinical vignettes.

Main Results:

• A novel five-subphase model of projective identification is presented.
• The model aids in localizing difficulties in working through countertransference.
• Clinical examples demonstrate the model's application.

Conclusions:

• The proposed multiphase model offers a framework for understanding projective identification.
• Differentiating subphases can clarify countertransference issues.
• The paper discusses impasses and interpretive strategies within this model.