Configurational Analysis and the Use of Role–Relationship Models to Understand Transference

Configurational analysis is a system for case formulation that is especially useful in cases where maladaptive interpersonal patterns are an aspect of psychotherapy. The method is systematic and begins with description of signs and symptoms to be explained. These phenomena lead to inferences about states of mind, person schemata, conflicts, and processes of defensive control of emotion. Role–relationship models are a format used in configurational analysis: They permit inferences about multiple self-concepts that may be desired, dreaded, or used as defensive compromises to avoid wish–fear dilemmas. Multiple and shifting transferences can be understood in terms of configurations of role-relationship models. The reliability and predictive validity of such inferences is summarized.