Analysis of transference in patients with personality disorders

In a subsample of 15 patients with personality disorders, 4 highly suitable patients were given a high number of transference interpretations per session in brief dynamic psychotherapy. A comparison group of 11 patients with lower suitability received similar treatment but transference interpretations were withheld. Statistical adjustment for the deliberate nonequivalence in pretreatment suitability indicated a significant negative effect of high numbers of transference interpretations on long-term dynamic changes. Patients with personality disorders, even when highly motivated for self-understanding, seem not to be able to use the patient-therapist relationship as a vehicle to gain insight about themselves in brief therapy. Interpretive work on the patients' interpersonal problems outside therapy seems more productive.