Psychodynamic Approach

Question 0

Describe the distinguishing features of psychodynamic approach - theories

Answer 0

 Role of the unconscious

 The structure of personality

 Psycho sexual stages

 Defence mechanisms

Question 1

Describe the assumptions of the psychodynamic approach

Answer 1

 Behaviour is determined by unconscious mental processes
 Early childhood experiences are important in the development of the adult personality and our mental functioning as an adult
 Psychoanalysis as a therapy can uncover the unconscious mind

Question 2

What are the strength of the psychodynamic approach?

Answer 2

• Acknowledges the importance of childhood experiences
• Methods of psychoanalyses are still used in psychiatry today
• Demonstrates the values of in depth detailed case studies

Question 3

What are the weaknesses of the psychodynamic approach?

Answer 3

• Unconscious mind cannot be investigated – Unscientific – unfalsifiable
• Case studies lacks generalizability
• Controversial idea of children’s sexual desires- criticized
• Male oriented
• Looks at the past (repressed childhood experiences) rather than present

Question 4

Describe an evaluate the research methods used in psychodynamic approach

Answer 4

Case studies
 In depth study of an individual or small group
 Participants usually have a rare conditions
 Takes place over long period of time
Evaluation
 Rich in detail data
 High ecological validity – relates to real life
 Can be used to challenge a theory
 Only way to study unusual or behaviour

• Not generalizable
• Unreliable data
• Research bias
• Cause a effect difficult to establish
• Replication not possible

Question 5

Describe a study from this approach – Little Hans

Answer 5

Little hans