Psychodynamic Theories of Personality

Psychodynamic Theory

A theory suggesting that personality is shaped by unconscious forces, internal conflicts, and defense mechanisms, originally developed by Sigmund Freud.

Preconscious Mind

The part of the mind that contains thoughts and feelings not currently in conscious awareness but can be easily accessed when needed.

Unconscious Mind

A part of the mind that consists of processes and memories beyond conscious awareness, significantly influencing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Projective Tests

Tools used by psychodynamic personality psychologists to assess personality by eliciting responses that reveal the contents of the preconscious and unconscious mind.

Ego Defense Mechanisms

Unconscious strategies used by the ego to protect itself from anxiety and perceived threats.

Denial

An ego defense mechanism where an individual unconsciously refuses to acknowledge reality or facts to protect themselves from uncomfortable truths.

Displacement

An ego defense mechanism where emotional impulses are redirected from the original source to a safer or more acceptable substitute target.

Projection

An ego defense mechanism where individuals attribute their own unacceptable feelings, thoughts, or motives to someone else, deflecting self-criticism.

Rationalization

An ego defense mechanism where individuals justify and explain their behaviors or feelings in a seemingly rational manner to avoid confronting true underlying reasons.

Reaction Formation

An ego defense mechanism where individuals suppress unacceptable impulses by displaying the opposite behavior or emotion.

Regression

An ego defense mechanism where an individual reverts to earlier stages of development and childlike behaviors when faced with stress or emotional conflict.

Repression

An ego defense mechanism where distressing thoughts and feelings are unconsciously blocked from entering conscious awareness.

Sublimation

An ego defense mechanism where negative urges and impulses are channeled into socially acceptable or constructive activities.