Psychodynamic Perspective Notes

Psychodynamic Perspective

Levels of Consciousness

Freud compared the mind to an iceberg:

Only about one-tenth is conscious.

The rest is unconscious, containing unacceptable urges and desires kept through repression.

Unconscious affects behavior, even though we are unaware of it.

Freudian slip: slips of the tongue are sexual or aggressive urges accidentally slipping out of our unconscious

Id, Ego, and Superego

Personality develops from the conflict between:

Biological aggressive and pleasure-seeking drives.

Internal (socialized) control over these drives.

Id: unconscious, primitive drives, operates on the "pleasure principle" (immediate gratification).

Superego: develops through social interactions, acts as our conscience, strives for perfection, and judges behavior.

Ego: rational part of personality, balances the id and superego based on the "reality principle".

Constant conflict: Id wants instant gratification, while the superego wants socially acceptable behavior.

Healthy personality: strong ego balances the id and superego.

Imbalances can lead to neurosis, anxiety disorders, or unhealthy behaviors.

Defense Mechanisms

Ego restores balance through protective measures called defense mechanisms when there is feelings of anxiety.

Unconscious protective behaviors reduce anxiety by distorting reality.

Denial: Refusing to accept real events because they are unpleasant.

Repression: Anxiety-causing memories are blocked from consciousness.

Reaction formation: Expressing opposite feelings to one's inclinations.

Regression: Acting younger than one's age.

Projection: Attributing one's own feelings to someone else.

Other mechanisms: rationalization, displacement, and sublimation.

Overuse of defense mechanisms can be problematic.

Behavioral Perspective

Focuses on observable behavior.

Personality is shaped by reinforcements and consequences.

Consistent behavior patterns are learned.

Personality develops over a lifetime