Psychoanalytic Theory and Humanistic Approach

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on psychoanalytic theory, defense mechanisms, Maslow's hierarchy of needs, and the humanistic approach in psychology.

Ego

The part of the personality that deals with reality, negotiating between basic instincts and societal rules.

Super Ego

The part of the personality that imposes moral standards and ideals, often in conflict with the desires of the ego.

Defense Mechanisms

Psychological strategies used by the ego to protect against anxiety and distress.

Repression

The unconscious blocking of unacceptable thoughts, feelings, and impulses.

Denial

Refusing to accept reality or truth, acting as if a painful event, thought, or feeling does not exist.

Regression

Reverting to an earlier phase of development in response to stress or anxiety.

Projection

Attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to another person.

Displacement

Redirecting emotions or impulses from the original source to a less threatening target.

Rationalization

Creating logical reasons or explanations for behaviors that are actually based on emotional factors.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

A psychological theory proposing that humans are motivated by a hierarchy of needs, from basic physiological needs to self-actualization.

Self-Actualization

The realization of one's potential and the ability to pursue personal growth and peak experiences.

Humanistic Psychology

A psychological perspective emphasizing personal growth and the inherent goodness of people.

Social Psychology

The scientific study of how individuals think, feel, and behave in social contexts.

Cognitive Dissonance

The mental discomfort experienced when holding contradictory beliefs or values.

Hypothesis Maker

A term used by George Kelly to describe how individuals formulate hypotheses about their social world.

Client-Centered Therapy

A therapeutic approach developed by Carl Rogers focused on an individual's capacity for self-direction and understanding.

Operant Conditioning

A learning process through which the strength of a behavior is modified by reinforcement or punishment.

Anxiety

A feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome.

Empirical Evidence

Information that is acquired by observation or experimentation that is used to form conclusions.