L9 - Psychodynamic Approach Flashcards
1
Q
Key Assumptions?
A
- Driving force behind behaviour is our unconscious mind
- Instincts and drives motivate our behaviour
- Early childhood is pivotal in making us who we are
2
Q
What is the Role of the Unconscious?
A
- 3 levels to the mind
- Conscious Mind: thoughts, feelings + memories a person is currently aware of
- Preconscious Mind: thoughts, feelings + memories a person could access if they wanted to
- Unconscious Mind: the largest kart of the mind that is inaccessible
3
Q
Describe the Unconscious Mind
A
- Everyday actions and behaviours are not controlled consciously but are products of the unconscious mind
- It reveals itself in slips of the tongue (Freudian Slips) and creativity and in neurotic symptoms
- The mind prevents traumatic thoughts/feelings/memories from reaching the conscious mind because they cause anxiety
- During Psychoanalysis, the therapist tries to access the Unconscious mins using free association and dream interpretation
4
Q
What is the structure of the personality?
A
Personality has a tripartite structure:
- The Id
- The Ego
- The Superego
Experience in childhood shape the development of these, affecting a person’s behaviour
5
Q
What is the Id?
A
- Formed between birth and 18 months
- Unconscious mind
- Focuses on self
- Irrational + emotional
- Deals with feelings + needs & seeks pleasure
- Operates on pleasure principle
6
Q
What is The Ego?
A
- Formed from 18 months - 3 years
- Conscious mind
- Rational
- Obtains balance between Id and Superego
- Operates on reality principle
7
Q
What is the Superego?
A
- Formed between 3-6 years
- Unconscious
- Acts as a conscience/moral guide
- Based on parental + societal values
- Operates on morality principle
