Speaking the unspeakable: institutional reactions to boundary violations by training analysts

The work of a COPE study group on boundary violations is summarized, with particular focus on the impact on institutes and societies of sexual misconduct by training analysts. Difficulties in evaluating such situations are discussed, and the dynamics of institutional avoidance explicated. In addition, psychodynamic themes that are commonly observed in analysts who engage in sexual boundary violations with their patients are elaborated. Finally, suggestions are made for managing, through existing mechanisms, instances of boundary violations by training analysts.