Abstract
The masochistic youngster tends to evoke in the treatment situation precisely the responses which impede progress. This article discusses countertransference issues and the dynamics of masochism, understood as a protection for a frightened ego rather than merely a willful manipulation. Difficulties in and approaches to dealing with the environment of children in residential treatment are presented.
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Ms. Smaldino is currently in private practice and supervisor of psychotherapy for the New Hope Guild.
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Smaldino, C. Out from under: Countertransference in the treatment of the masochistic youngster. Child Adolesc Soc Work J 1, 168–180 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00798432
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00798432