Peer theory,dyadic primacy,and destruction of the group: The borderline patient and group interaction

Recent contributions toward a peer theory of group psychotherapy place the therapist's facilitation of peer interaction at the center of curative action. Borderline patients' primitive demands for leader attention disrupt the evolution of group cohesion and may threaten to destroy the group. Peer theory must account for this eventuality and deal with the therapist's dilemma of whether to maintain a dyadic or peer focus. Homogeneity of group composition regarding dyadic or peer primacy is suggested.Presented at the Animal Meeting of the American Group Psychotherapy Association in Houston, Texas, 1981.