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The relationship between self-observed and other-observed countertransference and session outcome
Diego Rocco1, Francesco De Bei2, Attà Negri3
1Department of Developmental and Social Psychology.
Psychotherapy (Chicago, Ill.)
|January 28, 2021
Summary
Therapist and observer ratings of countertransference correlate differently with session quality. Understanding these distinct dimensions is key for effective psychotherapy and managing countertransference.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychotherapy Research
Background:
- Countertransference management is crucial in psychodynamic therapy.
- Unmanaged countertransference negatively impacts psychotherapy outcomes.
- This study examines therapist vs. observer countertransference ratings and session quality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between therapist- and observer-rated countertransference.
- To assess the impact of these countertransference measures on session quality.
- To explore the methodological value of multiple perspectives in countertransference research.
Main Methods:
- Analyzed 69 counseling sessions with 23 trainee psychotherapists and 23 patients.
- Used the Therapist Response Questionnaire for therapist-rated countertransference.
- Employed external observers using the Countertransference Behavior Measure.
- Assessed session impact via the Session Evaluation Questionnaire and Session Impact Scale.
Main Results:
- Therapist and observer countertransference ratings showed correlations across different dimensions.
- Distinct aspects of countertransference, measured internally and externally, relate differently to session outcomes.
- Multiple perspectives are necessary for a comprehensive understanding of countertransference.
Conclusions:
- Comparing internal and external countertransference evaluations offers insight into its multifaceted nature.
- Different facets of countertransference have unique associations with session outcomes.
- Future research should validate these findings with experienced psychotherapists.
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