Final answer:
In psychoanalytic theory, transference refers to the client's projection of past significant relationship dynamics onto their relationship with the therapist, often seeking to replay and resolve old conflicts.
Step-by-step explanation:
In psychoanalytic theory, the term transference is used to describe the phenomenon where a client projects and transfers their feelings, emotions, and attitudes from an earlier significant relationship onto the therapist. This is not to be confused with repression, displacement, or the development of psychosexual stages but is a distinct concept where the therapist becomes a stand-in for another person in the client's life. For instance, a client may begin to relate to the therapist as they would to a parent or ex-partner, replaying emotional conflicts and seeking resolution within the therapeutic relationship.