Psychoanalytic Theory
Definition
Psychoanalytic theory is a framework for understanding human behavior that emphasizes unconscious thoughts, conflicts between biological drives such as sex drive and societal norms, and early childhood experiences.
Analogy
Consider psychoanalytic theory as an iceberg. The tip above water represents our conscious mind while everything underwater symbolizes our unconscious mind - larger and more influential yet hidden from view.
Related terms
Freudian Slip: This term refers to an unintentional error regarded as revealing subconscious feelings.
Defense Mechanisms: These are unconscious psychological strategies used by individuals to cope with anxiety and maintain a positive self-image.
Id, Ego, Superego: These are the three parts of the psychic apparatus defined in Freud's structural model of the psyche. The id is driven by basic urges, the ego seeks realistic ways to satisfy those urges, and the superego represents moral conscience.
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Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (20+)
Which of the following concepts is most integral to Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory?
Which aspect most challenges the validity of Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory?
According to Sigmund Freud’s Psychoanalytic Theory, what is likely the cause if a child develops an overly strict super-ego?
What criticism is often leveled at psychoanalytic theory concerning its explanation for human behaviors?
What is a key critique against Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory regarding its application to neuroscience?
Which statement best illustrates the psychoanalytic theory of dreams as proposed by Sigmund Freud?
What is a valid critique of Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory?
Which critique best applies to Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory regarding motivation?
According to psychoanalytic theory, what role does the unconscious mind play in stress and coping?
Who developed the psychoanalytic theory of personality?
Who is most associated with the psychoanalytic theory of personality?
What term describes when unacceptable thoughts are kept out of conscious awareness according to psychoanalytic theory?
Who is the founder of psychoanalytic theory?
According to Freud, what is the primary function of the ego in psychoanalytic theory?
If an anthropologist were studying Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory, what topic might they be most interested in?
How might a philosopher interpret the psychoanalytic theory that subconscious desires impact our behaviors?
How would a staunch critic of Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory potentially refute the fundamental concept of unconscious desires driving human behavior?
Which famous psychologist developed the psychoanalytic theory of personality?
Why is applying psychoanalytic theory to neurodevelopmental disorders widely criticized?
How does dissociative identity disorder exemplify the defense mechanism of dissociation according to psychoanalytic theory?
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