I think transference occurs when you transfer feelings regarding one person onto another. It's largely unconscious, and the feelings tend to be transferred from early childhood figures, esp authority figures and significant people in early life.

Or, you may transfer feelings from more recent relationships; an old boy/girlfriend relationship for instance.

Transference states can be highly emotional states of mind and are often intense and out of proportion. I know that I am in transference when I have a reaction to someone that is rationally uncalled for, like when I suddenly 'hate' a total stranger based on little or no info.

I also know that I'm in transference when I find myself feeling small or powerless in relation to someone else. These are feelings that children have toward adults. I am transferring these feelings from my childhood into my adult life.

Believe me, your T will know all about transferrence -- and hopefully about his/her own countertransference toward you! Mike