Use of transference interpretations in dynamically oriented individual psychotherapy for patients with personality disorders

The use of transference interpretations in the individual treatment of pati ents with personality disorders is a controversial issue. Both expressive a pproaches that stress the importance of transference interpretations and su pportive approaches that avoid interpretation of the transference have been advocated by dynamically oriented therapists. Literature is reviewed regar ding recommendations for individual psychotherapy and the different views o n interpretation of the transference. Available research that has attempted to illuminate the impact of these interventions is also summarized. Althou gh the findings are limited by a number of methodological shortcomings, thr ee implications have emerged. First, a strong therapeutic alliance is imper ative for successful exploration of the transference. Second, transference- focused work should be balanced with supportive interventions. Third, the p atient's quality of object relations and his or her ability to work within the transference should be considered. However, without further research to guide clinical decision making, clinicians will be left with a confusing a rray of recommendations and only their intuition.