ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the fundamental tenets of transference from a Self Psychological point of view as well as the concepts elaboration from perspective of Intersubjective Self Psychology. After reviewing the traditional theoretical and clinical conceptualizations of transference, the chapter describes the notion of the selfobject transference, meaning the patient’s generative use of the therapist for the purpose of self-development. The primary selfobject lines of development – mirroring, idealization, and twinship – are described in both individual and intersubjective contexts. After discussing the application of these selfobject themes in treatment, an extended illustration is presented.
