Approaches: The Psychodynamic approach

Question 1

What are 3 assumptions of the psychodynamic approach??

Answer 1

• Most thinking takes place at unconscious level
• Feelings and behaviours at adulthood are rooted in childhood experiences
• All behaviour has a cause (usually unconscious)

Question 2

What are the 3 parts of the consciousness??

Answer 2

• Conscious mind (Part of the mind we are aware of)
• Preconscious mind (Thoughts and ideas which we may become aware of during dreams, thoughts or ‘Freudian slips’. Controls info that can enter conscious mind -> may prevent some due to being traumatising).
• Unconscious mind (hidden part that stores drives, instincts and repressed memories)

Question 3

Give 2 characteristics of each the id, ego and superego!

Answer 3

Id -> Primitive & present at birth
Ego -> Uses defence mechanisms, tries to be realistic (referee between id and superego)
Superego -> Represents moral values, internalised sense of right and wrong

Question 4

What are defence mechanisms??

Answer 4

Prevent us from becoming overwhelmed by temporary threats or trauma

Question 5

Name the 7 defence mechanisms!

Answer 5

• Displacement
• Repression
• Denial
• Projection
• Regression
• Rationalisation
• Sublimation

Question 6

What’s displacement??

Answer 6

Choosing substitute object for expression of true feelings because they can’t be expressed towards real target.

Question 7

What’s repression??

Answer 7

Pushing a distressing memory, truth or feeling out of conscious mind into unconscious.

Question 8

What’s denial??

Answer 8

Refusing to accept the truth

Question 9

What’s projection??

Answer 9

Unconsciously attributing own unacceptable thought, feelings or impulses to another person.

Question 10

What’s regression??

Answer 10

Reverting to early, more premature thought patterns, behaviours or emotional states.