The concept of projective identification and its clinical relevance

After briefly reviewing various contributions to the concept of projective identification, the author describes the clinical manifestations of this defense. These include (1) disownment and redirection of an intolerable experience to another, (2) manipulation of the recipient in an attempt to control, and (3) an induction of congruent responses in the recipient. The author then discusses the relevance of this concept from a diagnostic and treatment perspective.