Which statement from a client with borderline personality disorder indicates transference?

The statement "You are just like my mother bothering me with these questions" clearly indicates transference, a psychological phenomenon where a client unconsciously redirects feelings and attitudes from one person to another in their life. In this case, the client is projecting feelings associated with their mother onto the therapist, perceiving them as a figure who is similarly intrusive or bothersome. This type of reaction suggests unresolved conflicts and emotions related to the client's experiences with their mother, illustrating how past relationships can influence current interactions, particularly in the therapeutic context.

The other statements do not illustrate transference. Joining a kickboxing class instead of breaking objects shows a positive coping mechanism rather than projecting past relationships onto another person. Claiming that one cannot be an alcoholic because they go to work daily reflects denial and a lack of insight into substance use, rather than transference. The comment about threatening self-harm if a boyfriend leaves depicts emotional dysregulation and instability, characteristic of borderline personality disorder but not representative of transference dynamics.