Resistance in Psychoanalysis and Group Analysis

Abstract

The concept of resistance derives from psychoanalysis. It has gained importance also in group analysis. Analysis of resistance is one of the basic modes of working in both methods of treatment. Contempo­rary psychoanalysis understands resistance as a force, emanating from various layers of the psyche, with adaptive and protective functions. There are various types of resistance, depending on the reason for the resistance: insight, emotional experiencing, associating etc. Psychoanalysts are trained first to recognize resistance and then to interpret it at the right moment, thus enhancing the analytical work. In group analysis there are - in addition to individual resistances - group resistances and other resistances stemming from the individual, but arising as a consequence of group dynamics as, for example, when adopting specific group roles. In the article examples from group analytical treatment are given.