W2 Psychodynamic Diagnosis Lecture Flashcards
What is the focus of the Descriptive Model in psychodynamic diagnosis?
Categorize according to a cluster of symptoms, common behavioral and phenomenological features
Criteria are plural, while criterion is singular. Look for subjective experiences and similar symptomatic constellations.
What does the Psychodynamic Diagnostic Model emphasize?
What is unique about the patient and how are the patients different
It explores how the patient got to ‘Rome’ and the common pathway expression that needs to be deconstructed.
List the three components of the Topographic Model.
- Conscious
- Pre-conscious
- Unconscious Proper
What is Psychic Determinism?
We are consciously confused and unconsciously controlled
An example includes a patient projecting her feelings of being ‘unlovable’ onto the therapist.
What is meant by ‘The Past is Prologue’ in psychodynamic theory?
Early experiences are crucial determinants of adult personality
This is influenced by genetics and situational factors.
What are Fixation and Regression in psychodynamic theory?
- Fixation: did not pass a stage and became stuck
- Regression: under duress, we regress to more primitive stages
Identify the three parts of the Structural Model.
- Id = Unconscious
- Ego = mediates between conscious and unconscious
- Superego = moral conscience
What are Defense Mechanisms?
An unconscious psychological mechanism that reduces anxiety arising from unacceptable or potentially harmful stimuli
They are organized hierarchically (higher to lower).
What does are the levels of functioning analysis
Level of functioning analysis includes Ego, Object relations, and Self
It examines reality testing, reflective functioning, impulse control, frustration tolerance, and more.
Define Frustration Tolerance.
How well do we tolerate something that makes us mad
Example: sleeping on a bad grade before responding.
What is Psychological Mindedness?
The ability to reflect on one’s thoughts and feelings
It encompasses synthesis and integration of disparate thoughts.
What is meant by Object Relations Analysis?
Childhood relationships are very important, including family relationships and their current relationships
It involves real and transferential aspects of relationships between patient and clinician.
What does Self Assessment evaluate?
Identity integration and continuity of self over time
It emphasizes knowing one’s strengths and weaknesses.
List the four levels of Function Analysis.
- Neurotic level
- Narcissistic
- Borderline level
- Psychotic level
True or False: The higher the level of function, the easier it is to interpret and give feedback.
True
What is Character Assessment in psychodynamic diagnosis?
It identifies levels of character development from psychotic to neurotic
Each level reflects different developmental issues and relational dynamics.
Fill in the blank: The _______ level is the most primitive form of character development.
Psychotic
What are the issues associated with the Borderline character level?
Ambivalence about being over-attached/enmeshed with the caregiver vs. being abandoned
This includes feelings of shame, humiliation, and rage.
What characterizes the Narcissistic level of character development?
Basic relational needs were met, but the caregiver’s intrusion led to the child inhibiting their own needs
The child learns to view their needs as shameful.
What is the main issue at the Neurotic level of character development?
Misperceptions of reality and misattributions explaining situations or interpersonal interactions
This leads to inappropriate emotional reactions, judgments, and behaviors.
What is cognitive modulation over affect
when a person is capable of not reacting immediately
allowing the limbic system and frontal lobe to interact and give time for cognitive processes
what is dimensionality in self-assessment
knowing yourself without the presence of arrogance
allowing yourself to have continuity
