On the subject of handling hostility in therapy

This paper focuses on the subject matter of handling repressed or expressed hostility within the context of the psychotherapeutic situation. The emphasis is on the importance of permitting the patient to express hostility, and/or help him become aware of the fact that he is repressing it. To achieve this insight on the patient's part, the therapist has to be aware of his own countertransference reactions and has to maintain an objective attitude at all times. Some difficulties in attaining this attitude are explored. Brief vignettes from the author's and others' experience are given.