Ethical Management of Erotic Transference: A Brief Review

Abstract

Purpose: Erotic transference occurs frequently in counseling. The mismanagement of erotic transference harms the effectiveness of therapy and the therapeutic relationship. Therefore, this study aims to identify the ethical issues surrounding erotic transference in counseling and clarify valuable strategies to manage this phenomenon. Methodology: This study conducted a brief review of the literature on the topic of erotic transference to explain the concept and illustrate related ethical issues and management methods. Results: The study suggests that therapists should promptly identify the manifestations of erotic transference, refrain from disclosing their sexual feelings toward the client, disillusion the client, reclaim the fantasy, restore the client’s ego deficits in the transference, consult professional colleagues and supervisors, consider cultural influences, and, when necessary, terminate therapy promptly or appropriately refer the client. Conclusions: Therapists have the responsibility to benefit, not harm, the client, preserve professional and ethical boundaries, consider carefully self-disclosure in therapy, and engage in ongoing learning to properly recognize and address erotic transference. The findings contribute to the literature on erotic transference and offer valuable insights into the management of the phenomenon. Future research could explore erotic feelings in female therapist-male client therapy, same-gender therapy, and therapist-minor therapy to provide further insights into the transference.