Psychoanalytic (L2) Flashcards
What are common myths about psychoanalysis?
Work of one man, outdated, weird, no evidence
These myths often undermine the legitimacy of psychoanalytic theory.
What is the Topographical Model of Psychology?
Divided self: Conscious, Preconscious, Unconscious
Initially proposed as the Topographical hypothesis, later evolved into the Structural hypothesis.
Define the Conscious in the Topographical Model.
What we know; it’s right there
This represents thoughts and feelings that are currently in awareness.
Define the Preconscious in the Topographical Model.
Difficult to recall, just below the surface
This includes thoughts that are not fully conscious but can be accessed.
Define the Unconscious in the Topographical Model.
Guides actions without awareness; repressed feelings
Contains unacceptable thoughts and memories that influence behavior.
How does the Topographical Model explain childlike feelings?
Unacceptable feelings in the Unconscious want to reach Conscious, but are repressed by Preconscious
Intense feelings or dreams may bypass this repression.
What happens to unconscious thoughts during sleep?
Transition from Beta (awake) > Alpha (relaxed) > Theta (dream) > Delta (deep)
This transition can allow unconscious thoughts to surface.
True or False: The unconscious always reflects what you truly want.
False
The unconscious may lead to choices that do not align with conscious desires.
What is the role of the Id in the structural model of psychology?
Operates according to the pleasure principle; active in youth
The Id seeks immediate gratification of desires.
What is the role of the Superego in the structural model of psychology?
Operates based on the morality principle; develops last
The Superego enforces societal norms and morals.
What is the role of the Ego in our personality?
Balances the conflict between Id and Superego; operates according to the reality principle using different defences
The Ego seeks realistic ways to satisfy Id’s desires while adhering to Superego’s morals.
What are some examples of Ego defenses?
- Repression
- Denial
- Projection
These defenses help manage unacceptable thoughts and feelings.
What is repression in the context of Ego defenses?
Unconsciously blocking memories, thoughts, and conflicts from consciousness
This defense mechanism prevents distressing thoughts from entering awareness.
What is denial in the context of Ego defenses?
Refusal to believe; mind physically disallows it
This mechanism protects the individual from uncomfortable truths.
What is projection in the context of Ego defenses?
Attributes unacceptable feelings to others
This allows individuals to externalize their own undesirable emotions.
How does the structure of the psyche influence personality?
Ego defenses vary among individuals based on balancing Id and Superego
This balance shapes personality traits and behaviors.
What is partially responsible for our personality and motivations?
Our unconscious thoughts
What experiences in childhood can influence the Unconscious?
Traumatic, difficult, or anxiety provoking experiences
These experiences become entangled with Id impulses.
How does the Unconscious influence behavior despite being repressed?
It continues to influence our behaviour, feelings, and relationships
Unconscious material can seep into consciousness.
What is a consequence of Unconscious material not being worked through in consciousness?
It cannot be tempered by reality or logical adult thought
This leads to unresolved issues affecting behavior.
Fill in the blank: Unconscious ideas are often a misrepresentation of _______.
reality
True or False: The Unconscious can be easily accessed and understood by the individual.
False
