PSYCHODYNAMIC Evaluation Flashcards
What debate does the idiographic approach relate to in the evaluation of psychodynamic theory?
It is idiographic as everyone’s childhood experiences are different, allowing for a greater understanding of the individual.
Why is the psychodynamic approach considered not scientific?
It cannot be generalised and relies on subjective interpretations.
How is the psychodynamic approach deterministic?
It suggests a lack of free will, as behaviour is shaped by mothers and early childhood experiences.
What ethical issue is raised by the deterministic nature of psychodynamic theory?
It implies that people have no control over their behaviour.
How is the psychodynamic approach holistic?
Freud looks at the entire child’s life, including parents, experiences, and upbringing.
What is a downside of the holistic nature of psychodynamic theory?
It is less scientific and makes it difficult to form predictions.
How does the psychodynamic approach support the nurture side of the nature-nurture debate?
It sees people as being shaped by their experiences in childhood.
How does Freud’s theory also support the nature side of the nature-nurture debate?
Freud said we are born with an innate set of biological instincts.
What is one way psychodynamic theory is useful in therapy?
It has given us a wide variety of therapies that are highly effective.
How does psychodynamic therapy differ from others in terms of symptom treatment?
It investigates the patient’s background in great detail rather than just curing current symptoms.
What is a benefit of psychodynamic therapy regarding side effects?
It has no side effects.
What did Lindgren et al. (2010) find about long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy?
Patients had significantly reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem.
What is a limitation of psychodynamic therapy in terms of accessibility?
It is long-term and not offered on the NHS.
Why is the psychodynamic approach considered unscientific in terms of evidence?
It does not use scientific evidence and most data is qualitative.
Why are Freud’s theories considered subjective?
Conclusions are interpreted differently by psychologists and are hard to test.
What reasoning flaw is used in psychodynamic theory?
It uses circular reasoning, making it difficult to prove wrong.
