An object relations perspective on the nature of resistance and therapeutic change

Abstract

An object relations model of resistance and therapeutic change based on Fairbairn's conception of psychopathology is presented in this paper. His recasting of the nature of the repressed in terms of malevolent inner objects is described. A clinical vignette is provided to illustrate the manner in which resistance to the therapeutic alteration of the patient's pathological internal object world can be surmounted by both interpretive work and the provision of a replacement good object (the therapist) in the treatment situation.