Psychodynamic Theory and Humanistic Theory Study Notes

Psychodynamic Theory

Definition: A psychological perspective that emphasizes the influence of the unconscious mind on behavior.

Unconscious Mind: A part of the mind that operates outside of conscious awareness, housing thoughts, memories, and desires that are not accessible to conscious reflection.
Id: The primal, instinctual part of the mind that contains basic drives and desires, operating on the pleasure principle. It seeks immediate gratification without regard for reality or societal norms.
Ego: The rational part that mediates between the desires of the id and the realities of the external world. It functions on the reality principle, ensuring that impulses are expressed in socially acceptable ways.
Superego: Represents the internalized ideals and standards of morality and social norms acquired from parents and society. It provides guidelines for making judgments.

Denial: Refusal to accept reality or facts, acting as a buffer against anxiety.
Displacement: Shifting of emotional responses from one object to another that is perceived as safer.
Projection: Attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to others.
Rationalization: Justifying behaviors or feelings with logical reasons, avoiding the true explanation.
Reaction Formation: Converting unwanted or dangerous thoughts into their opposites. For example, behaving in a way that is opposite to one’s true feelings.
Regression: Reverting to behaviors of an earlier stage of development, often in response to stress.
Repression: Involuntary blocking of unpleasant feelings and experiences from one's awareness.
Sublimation: Transforming unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable actions or behaviors.

Rorschach Inkblot Test: A projective psychological test consisting of ten inkblots printed on cards, used to measure underlying thought processes and emotions.
Thematic Apperception Test (TAT): A projective test that asks subjects to create stories based on ambiguous images, used to uncover the individual's underlying motives, feelings, and concerns.

Definition: A psychological perspective that emphasizes human growth, potential, and self-actualization.
Unconditional Positive Regard: An acceptance and support of a person regardless of what the person says or does. It is crucial for personal growth and self-acceptance.
Self-Actualizing Tendency: The inherent drive to realize one's full potential and capabilities, striving for personal growth and fulfillment in life.