You Still Do That? Training Residents to Use Psychodynamic Theory

The key features as described by Shedler [5] are (1) focusing on affect and expression of emotions, (2) exploration of attempts to avoid distressing thoughts and feelings, (3) identification of recurring themes and patterns, (4) discussion of past experience with a developmental focus, (5) focusing on interpersonal relationships, (6) focusing on the therapeutic relationship, and (7) exploration of fantasy life. Because past experiences influence present interactions and experiences, discussion of past experience with a focus on development helps the patient develop a narrative that explains current decisions, emotions, and beliefs in light of the patient’s past. The psychiatry resident explores what Mr. A. fears and hopes that his family members will say when they discover that he has had a heart attack.