Investigating defense interpretation depth using lag sequential analysis

Abstract

Objective: This study investigated the association between therapist interventions and patient defensive functioning in low-alliance and high-alliance sessions over the course of short-term dynamic psychotherapy (STDP) (n= 22). Method:Lag sequential analysis was used to determine if there were predictable sequences of therapist interventions and patient defenses in low-alliance and high alliance sessions and whether these two sequences differ. Results:The results of this study suggest that sequences between alliance session groups are different. Specifically, defense interpretation depth unfolds in a predictable fashion during a low-alliance session while supportive strategies appear more predictable during high-alliance sessions. Conclusions:Defense interpretation depth is a clinical construct that warrants further study in psychotherapy research. defense mechanisms, interpretation, therapeutic alliance, therapist technique, psychodynamic therapy