Overview
Psychoanalytic Theory, founded by Sigmund Freud, explores the complex interplay between the conscious and unconscious mind. It posits that much of human behavior is influenced by unconscious desires and conflicts, often rooted in childhood experiences. Key concepts include the id, ego, and superego,...
Key Terms
Example: Freud believed that repressed memories affect behavior.
Example: The ego helps us make decisions based on reality.
Example: The id seeks immediate gratification of desires.
Example: The superego can create feelings of guilt.
Example: Denial is a common defense mechanism.
Example: The oral stage occurs in infancy.
Related Topics
Behaviorism
A psychological approach focusing on observable behaviors rather than internal mental states.
intermediateCognitive Psychology
The study of mental processes such as perception, memory, and problem-solving.
intermediateHumanistic Psychology
An approach emphasizing personal growth and the concept of self-actualization.
intermediateKey Concepts
Unconscious mindDefense mechanismsPsychosexual stagesDream analysis