Title

The impact of the sibling in clinical practice: Transference and countertransference dynamics

Authors

Authors

C. J. Moser; R. A. Jones; D. M. Zaorski; H. Mirsalimi;A. F. Luchner

Comments

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Abbreviated Journal Title

Psychotherapy

Keywords

sibling; transference; countertransference; psychotherapy/therapy; relational therapy; Psychology, Clinical

Abstract

For many years, the impact of sibling relationships on psychological development has been neglected in the literature, overshadowed by the role of the parent-child relationship. As a result, attention to sibling dynamics and sibling transference as valuable information for case formulation and treatment interventions has not been used to its maximum potential. The authors demonstrate how deliberate consideration of sibling dynamics as well as the transferences and countertransferences associated with those dynamics can facilitate treatment Several important sibling dynamics are discussed, including siblings' influences on identity development; sibling rivalry, jealousy, envy, guilt, and resentment; and sibling attachment. The impact of sibling dynamics on adult love relationships is discussed, as are potential effects of sibling abuse and sibling bereavement. Examples of how these dynamics can manifest themselves in transference and countertransference reactions and suggestions for working with those dynamics are illustrated with clinical examples.

Journal Title

Psychotherapy

Volume

42

Issue/Number

3

Publication Date

1-1-2005

Document Type

Article

Language

English

First Page

267

Last Page

278

WOS Identifier

WOS:000233027900001

ISSN

0033-3204

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