Psychodynamic Theory

Question 1

Who pioneered Psychodynamic Theory?

Answer 1

Sigmund Freud is publicly acknowledged for creating psychodynamic theory.

Question 2

Psychodynamic Theory states that human functioning is based on the interaction of drives and forces within a person, and between the different structures of personality. Name Freud’s 3 components of personality, stating whether they are conscious, unconscious or both.

Answer 2

id - Unconscious
ego - Mainly Conscious
superego - Both

Question 3

Describe Freud’s 3 aspects of personality:

Answer 3

id: The id is driven by the pleasure principle, which strives for immediate
gratification of all desires, wants, and needs, especially sexual.

ego: Known as the ‘Reality Principle’, the ego uses reasoning to make decisions, and ensures that the impulses of the id can be expressed in a manner
acceptable in the real world.

superego: The superego holds the internalized moral standards and ideals
that we acquire from our parents and society (our sense of right and wrong).

Question 4

According to Freud, what component out of the id, ego and superego is the stongest in a healthy person?

Answer 4

The ego (decision making/id control)

Question 5

Freud’s theory of Psychosexual Development claims that everyone passes through 5 stages of developement as they grow up. What are these 5 phases?

Answer 5

• Oral (Birth - 1 Year)
• Anal (1 - 3 Years)
• Phallic (3 - 6 Years)
• Latency (6 - Puberty)
• Genital (Puberty - Adulthood)

Question 6

State the focus/conflict of each stage:

Answer 6

Oral: Weaning
Anal: Toilet Training
Phallic: Awareness of genitals and boy’s jealousy of their fathers
Latency: A period of stability focussing on social interaction and development
Genital: Strong sexual interests