Although object relations theory has become the dominant theoretical perspective in the psychoanalytic realm, weaknesses within the object relations perspective have not been examined sufficiently. In particular, the frequent lack of clarity as to whether a given reference to an “object” refers to an internal representation or an external figure has resulted in major problems, distortions, or misapplications in the clinical utilization of object relations theory. This lack of clarity has the effect of transferring the therapist's attention to the role of the external world at the expense of attending to the internal world and structure of the patient. This shift to the external interpersonal world has particular implications for models of transference and therapeutic intervention.