Psychodynamic Explanations Of Aggression

Question 1

Simplified Explanation
What makes up ID? (2)

Answer 1

Thanatos- self destruction : pressure builds up until we can’t control it
Eros- preservation & enjoyment of life

Question 2

Unconscious Forces
Ego, Superego, ID

Answer 2

Ego- conscious, mental activity we know about- thoughts, perceptions
Superego- preconscious , could be aware of- memories, stored knowledge
ID- unconscious, unaware of - fears, immoral wishes, traumatic experiences

Question 3

Ego’s Defence Mechanisms (3)

Answer 3

Displacement- take anger out on person/ object, not actual target of aggression
Denial/ Repression- ignore emotions, push them down so not affected by them
Sublimation- channeling aggression into other acceptable behaviour

Question 4

Applications of Psychodynamic Theory (2)

Answer 4

Explains different kind of aggression: hot vs cold
Used to treat people

Question 5

Strengths of Psychodynamic Theory (4)

Answer 5

• Cognition/ thoughts- closest can be PET scanned
• Explains different aggressions
• Explain childhood experiences/ environmental learning
• Face validity

Question 6

Weaknesses of Psychodynamic Theory (3)

Answer 6

• no scientific credibility
• based on empirical evidence
• based on case studied e.g. Little Hans & Anna ‘O’