[7] Though a difficult concept for the conscious mind to come to terms with,[8] since its primitive nature makes its operation or interpretation seem more like magic or art than science,[9] projective identification is nonetheless a powerful tool of interpersonal communication.
[14] The objects (feelings, attitudes) extruded in projective identification are of various kinds – both good and bad, ideal and abjected.
[27] As with transference and countertransference, projective identification can be a potential key to therapeutic understanding, especially where the therapist is able to tolerate and contain the unwanted, negative aspects of the patient's self over time.
[28] Transactional analysis emphasizes the need for the therapist's "Adult" (an ego state directed towards an objective appraisal of reality) to remain uncontaminated if the experience of the client's projective identification is to be usefully understood.
Also, the three connected phenomena of transference, countertransference, and projective identification are addressed as the foundation for the therapist's successful application of the self as a tool in treatment.
Therapists also practice using a three-phase process, by detecting projective identification, demonstrating understanding and professionalism, then intervening based on it.
[32] Jungians describe the resultant dynamics as characterising a so-called "wounded couple" – projective identification ensuring that each carries the most ideal or the most primitive parts of their counterpart.