Which technique involves pointing out patient behaviors like silence, lateness, or deflecting to resist exploring issues?

Which technique involves pointing out patient behaviors like silence, lateness, or deflecting to resist exploring issues?

• A. Dream Analysis.
• B. Transference.
• C. Bibliotherapy.
• D. Analysis of Resistance and Defenses.

Answer: (D)

Recognizing and addressing resistance and defenses is a key practice when working with clients. When a patient remains silent, shows up late, or deflects questions, these aren’t just random habits—they’re signs of avoidance aimed at shielding the person from anxiety-provoking material. By naming and exploring these resistance patterns, the therapist helps the client become aware of what they’re protecting themselves from and why, which opens the door to deeper exploration of underlying issues. This approach is a hallmark of psychodynamic work, where bringing unconscious defenses into conscious awareness can move therapy forward. Dream analysis focuses on interpreting dreams, transference involves projecting feelings onto the therapist, and bibliotherapy uses reading to prompt insight—none specifically target pointing out and examining these resistant behaviors in the moment like this technique does.