A research on counter-transference in psychoanalysis

Abstract

The Master’s thesis entitled “The concept of counter-transference in the work of Freud and Lacan. Reflections on its place in the psychoanalytical theory and its clinical value” is motivated by the interest in interrogating the absence of the term “counter-transference” in psychoanalysis oriented by the teachings of Lacan. For this purpose, it historicizes the appearance and development of the concept and problematizes the established points of view regarding the relevance of this concept in the psychoanalytical theory and clinical practice. The research traces the term in the work of Freud and Lacan, analyzing its status and questioning the “consecrated statements” on the issue. At the same time, the thesis addresses the developments of post-Freudian analysts who are recognized as pioneers in the consideration of counter-transference as an instrument in psychoanalytical treatment, as well as the work of the authors with whom Lacan polemicizes when approaching the matter. As a result, a question is raised regarding the validity of eliminating the concept from theoretical and clinical reflection in psychoanalysis, replacing it with concepts such as “transference” and “desire of the analyst”.