Chapter 19: Problem 6

Although more than two-thirds of therapists have felt sexually attracted to a client on at least one occasion, only around one-third of clients have ever felt sexually attracted to their therapist (Pope \& Brown, 1996 ). How might these different reactions be explained? p. 642

Short Answer

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There are several reasons that may explain the difference. Power dynamics could cause clients to refrain from acknowledging attraction to therapists. Professional ethics and boundaries may reduce the likelihood of mutual attraction. Psychological factors like 'transference' and 'countertransference' could result in misinterpretation of feelings as sexual attraction. Lastly, the higher number of interactions for therapists could account for the difference.

Step by step solution

Understanding Power Dynamics

Firstly, the understanding of power dynamics at play should be considered. Therapists often hold positions of authority or power in the therapist-client relationship, which might result in clients refraining from feeling or acknowledging any sexual attraction.

Professional Ethics and Boundaries

Secondly, discussing the role of professional ethics and boundaries in these situations. Therapists are often trained to maintain strict professional boundaries, and clients may also subconsciously adhere to these boundaries, reducing the likelihood of mutual attraction.

Psychological Factors

In the third stage, psychological factors should be analyzed. One possibility could be the concept of 'transference', where clients might redirect feelings they have for someone else in their life towards the therapists. Similarly, therapists could experience 'countertransference'. As a result, these redirected feelings might be misinterpreted as personal sexual attraction.

Prevalence in Society

Lastly, the overall prevalence of attraction in society could be considered. More therapists might report feeling attracted to clients simply due to the higher number of individuals they interact with in a professional setting, compared to the clients only interacting mainly with one therapist.

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Although more than two-thirds of therapists have felt sexually attracted to a client on at least one occasion, only around one-third of clients have ever felt sexually attracted to their therapist (Pope \& Brown, 1996 ). How might these different reactions be explained? p. 642

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding Power Dynamics

Professional Ethics and Boundaries

Psychological Factors

Prevalence in Society

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