1 Freud's Psychoanalytic Theory and Personality Concepts

What is the conscience in Freud's theory?

The conscience is part of the superego and refers to internalized moral standards and values that guide us in determining right from wrong, punishing us with feelings of guilt when we act against these standards.

What does intrapsychic conflict refer to?

Intrapsychic conflict refers to the internal struggle within a person's mind between different parts of the psyche, such as the id, ego, and superego, arising from opposing desires or motivations.

What role does the ego play in Freud's psychoanalytic theory?

The ego balances the desires of the id (instinctual desires) and the moral constraints of the superego according to the reality principle, making decisions based on what is realistic and socially acceptable.

What is the ego ideal?

The ego ideal is part of the superego that represents the standards of what a person strives to be, motivating individuals to pursue goals that align with their internalized values and societal expectations.

What is the difference between the ego and the ego ideal?

The ego is focused on reality and decision-making, while the ego ideal represents the idealized self and aspirations.

What are attributions in psychology?

Attributions are explanations we make about why people behave a certain way, including our own behavior, seeking to understand the 'why' behind actions.

What is a situational attribution?

A situational attribution explains behavior based on external factors, such as circumstances or environment, rather than internal characteristics.

What is the Law of Effect?

The Law of Effect is a principle in behaviorism stating that behaviors followed by positive outcomes are more likely to be repeated, while those followed by negative outcomes are less likely to be repeated.

Give an example of the Law of Effect in action.

If you study hard and receive a good grade, you are more likely to continue studying hard in the future due to the positive outcome.

What is psychometrics?

Psychometrics is the field of study concerned with the theory and technique of psychological measurement, including the measurement of knowledge, abilities, attitudes, and personality traits.

What is the role of the id in Freud's theory?

The id is the part of the psyche that contains instinctual desires and seeks immediate gratification.

How does the superego function in Freud's model?

The superego imposes moral constraints and standards, guiding behavior according to societal values and ideals.

What might happen when the id and superego are in conflict?

When the id and superego have opposing desires, it creates intrapsychic conflict, leading to tension within the individual.

What is an example of a dispositional attribution?

Saying someone is late because 'they're lazy' is a dispositional attribution, attributing behavior to internal characteristics.

What is an example of a situational attribution?

Saying someone is late because 'there was traffic' is a situational attribution, attributing behavior to external circumstances.

What does the ego do when faced with conflicting desires?

The ego mediates between the id's desires and the superego's moral constraints, making decisions that are realistic and socially acceptable.

What feelings arise when one acts against the conscience?

Feelings of guilt arise when one acts against the conscience, which is part of the superego.

What motivates individuals according to the ego ideal?

The ego ideal motivates individuals to pursue goals that align with their internalized values and societal expectations, leading to feelings of pride when these standards are met.

What is the significance of the reality principle in the ego?

The reality principle allows the ego to make decisions that consider the real world and social norms, balancing desires and moral standards.

How does the Law of Effect relate to habit formation?

The Law of Effect underpins habit formation by reinforcing behaviors that lead to positive outcomes and discouraging those that lead to negative outcomes.

What is the main focus of psychometrics?

The main focus of psychometrics is to measure psychological attributes such as intelligence, personality, and emotional states.

What is the relationship between the id, ego, and superego?

The id seeks immediate gratification, the superego imposes moral standards, and the ego mediates between the two according to reality.

How does understanding attributions help in psychology?

Understanding attributions helps in analyzing behavior by providing insights into the reasons behind actions, whether they are due to internal traits or external circumstances.