Countertransference Reactions Aroused by Sex Crimes in a Forensic Psychiatric Environment

Abstract

Although countertransference is an established concept within psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy, its influence in other areas of psychology and psychiatric expertise, as well as in other medical specialties, remains low. This study investigated the role of countertransference in the activities performed by forensic psychiatrists in a Brazilian forensic psychiatric hospital. The study investigated, in an exploratory manner, the main feelings aroused in those doctors during the forensic evaluation and treatment of sex offenders; furthermore, it examined how these professionals addressed such feelings. The present work generates hypotheses for future studies and initiates a discussion of the possible benefits of psychoanalytic psychotherapy or psychoanalysis for candidates for forensic psychiatry and psychology practice.

Keywords:

• countertransference
• forensic psychiatry
• sex offenders
• vicarious traumatization

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We thank all of the study participants and the data collection team who created the database.