Psychodynamic Approach Flashcards
What metaphor did Freud use to describe the mind?
Freud used the iceberg metaphor:
The conscious mind (tip of the iceberg) is visible.
The unconscious mind (below the surface) is much larger and inaccessible to conscious thought.
What is the key assumption of Freud’s psychoanalysis?
Freud assumed that behaviour is determined more by psychological factors than biological or environmental ones. He believed behaviour is influenced by unconscious processes, basic instincts, and unmet needs.
What is the role of the unconscious mind?
The unconscious mind influences behaviour through repressed memories, slips of the tongue, creativity, and neurotic symptoms. Defence mechanisms prevent traumatic memories from reaching conscious awareness to reduce anxiety.
What are the three parts of the structure of personality according to Freud?
Id: Operates on the pleasure principle, seeking immediate gratification.
Ego: Mediates between the id and the superego using the reality principle.
Superego: Divided into the conscience (internalised societal rules) and the ego-ideal (strives for parental standards of good behaviour).
What are defence mechanisms, and why are they used?
Defence mechanisms operate unconsciously to distort reality, reducing anxiety when an individual faces a situation they cannot handle rationally.
Name and explain five defence mechanisms.
Repression: Blocking unacceptable thoughts or impulses unconsciously.
Denial: Refusing to accept reality to avoid painful feelings.
Displacement: Redirecting feelings (usually hostile) to a less threatening object or person.
Projection: Attributing one’s own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to someone else.
Regression: Reverting to behaviours characteristic of an earlier developmental stage when under stress.
What are the five psychosexual stages of development?
Oral (0-2 years): Focus on the mouth (sucking, biting).
Anal (2-3 years): Focus on control (toilet training).
Phallic (3-6 years): Oedipus/Electra complex; focus on genitals.
Latent (6-12 years): Repression of earlier conflicts, focus on learning.
Genital (12+ years): Sexual energy directed towards adult relationships.
What are the key strengths of Freud’s psychodynamic approach?
Pioneering contributions: Shifted focus to psychological causes of behaviour.
Therapeutic success: Psychoanalysis treats disorders like depression and anxiety (e.g., de Maat et al., 2009).
Scientific support: Studies (e.g., Fisher & Greenberg, 1996) validate defence mechanisms and unconscious motivations.
What are the key criticisms of Freud’s psychodynamic approach?
Gender bias: Freud’s theories neglect female development (e.g., criticised by Karen Horney).
Culture bias: Psychoanalysis is less relevant for non-Western cultures (e.g., Sue & Sue, 2008).
Unscientific claims: Critics argue that many concepts are untestable or unfalsifiable.
