Psych Theories: Psychoanalytic - Quiz 1

What is the main argument of Shedler (2010)?

That psychodynamic therapy is empirically supported, with large effect sizes and lasting benefits, contrary to the belief that it lacks evidence.

What are the seven distinctive features of psychodynamic therapy?

1. Focus on affect and emotion

2. Exploration of avoidance/defense

3. Identification of recurring themes and patterns

4. Linking past experiences to present

5. Focus on interpersonal relationships

6. Focus on the therapy relationship (transference/countertransference)

7. Exploration of fantasy life.

What is the therapeutic goal of psychodynamic therapy beyond symptom relief?

To develop inner capacities such as empathy, self-reflection, nuanced understanding of self/others, and richer relationships.

What did meta-analyses show about psychodynamic therapy effect sizes?

Effect sizes ranged from about 0.97 to 1.8, often increasing at long-term follow-up, showing gains that last and grow after treatment ends.

How does psychodynamic therapy compare to antidepressants in effect size?

Psychodynamic therapy has larger effect sizes (around 0.97-1.8) compared to antidepressants (0.17-0.31).

What is the "Dodo bird verdict" in psychotherapy research?

The idea that all major therapies produce roughly equivalent outcomes ("everyone has won and all must have prizes").

How do psychodynamic elements appear in other therapies?

Many effective therapists in CBT and other approaches use psychodynamic techniques (focus on relationships, past experiences, alliance) even if not labeled as such.

Who founded psychoanalysis and when?

Sigmund Freud in the early 1900s.

What is ego psychology and when did it emerge?

Developed mid-20th century (Anna Freud, Heinz Hartmann), focusing on defenses and adaptation of the ego.

What is object relations theory?

A mid-20th century school (Klein, Winnicott, Fairbairn) emphasizing relationships with caregivers and internalized "objects."

Who developed attachment theory?

John Bowlby, highlighting how early attachments shape later development.

What is self psychology and who is associated with it?

Heinz Kohut (1960s-70s), focusing on the self, empathy, and the need for mirroring in relationships.

What is relational psychoanalysis?

Emerged in the 1980s-90s (Mitchell, Greenberg), emphasizing mutual influence between therapist and client.

What are the major waves of psychology in order?

1. Psychoanalysis 2. Behaviorism 3. Humanistic/Existential 4. Cognitive 5. Integrative/Postmodern.

What characterizes the first wave of psychology?

Psychoanalysis (Freud, early 1900s), focus on unconscious drives, conflicts, and childhood experiences.

What characterizes the second wave of psychology?

Behaviorism (Watson, Skinner, 1910s-50s), focus on observable behavior and conditioning.

What characterizes the third wave of psychology?

Humanistic/Existential (Rogers, Maslow, 1950s-70s), focus on growth, meaning, authenticity, and human potential.

What characterizes the fourth wave of psychology?

Cognitive (Beck, Ellis, 1960s-90s), focus on thoughts, schemas, and CBT as dominant treatment.

What characterizes the fifth wave of psychology?

Integrative/Postmodern (1990s-today), including ACT, DBT, multicultural/systemic approaches, neuroscience, and evidence-based practice.

What is a key modern strength of psychodynamic therapy?

It fosters lasting personality change and development of inner resources, not just symptom relief.