Final answer:
The Gestalt therapeutic technique that encourages clients to take ownership of their defensive projections is confrontation.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Gestalt therapy, the technique that encourages clients to take ownership of their defensive projections is known as confrontation.
Confrontation involves the therapist directly and empathically pointing out the client's defensive mechanisms and how they may be hindering their growth and self-awareness. By bringing these projections into conscious awareness, clients are able to take responsibility for their own feelings and behaviors, rather than attributing them to others.
Examples of confrontation in Gestalt therapy may include the therapist saying, 'I notice that you are blaming others for your own mistakes. What might be preventing you from taking responsibility for your actions?' or 'I observe that you are avoiding discussing certain topics. Can you explore why that might be?' The goal is to help clients gain insight and promote self-growth.