Theory of the human mind and a therapeutic practice Psychoanalysis Theory of the human mind and a therapeutic practice

Introduction From the late 1800's until the 1950's, psychologists were divided about what they should study and how they should study it. As a result, it gave birth to different ideologies. These different ideologies are regarded as schools. School is a group of individuals who share certain fundamentals, methodology or theoretical points of view.

Main schools are: 1. Structuralism 2. Functionalism 3. Psychoanalysis 4. Gestalt Psychology 5. Behaviorism

Psychoanalysis Psychoanalysis is both a theory of the human mind and a therapeutic practice. It was founded by Sigmund Freud between 1885 and 1939. Associates: Anna Freud, Adler, Erickson. And it continues to be developed by psychoanalysts all over the world.

Sigmund Freud

Psychoanalysis is an effective therapy for dealing with mental disorders, and has been proven to be effective. In 1896, Freud coined the term "psychoanalysis". And for the next forty years of his life, he worked on thoroughly developing its main principles, objectives, techniques, and methodology.

4 major areas of application 1) as a theory of how the mind works. 2) as a treatment method for psychic problems. 3) as a method of research, and 4) as a way of viewing cultural and social phenomena like literature, art, movies, performances, politics and groups.

Advantages "insight therapy" Bergin - estimated that 80% of patients benefited from this therapy. It's a long and intensive therapy. Therapies of this nature have been shown to produce better results

Disadvantages It's based on Freud's theory of personality. If his theory is flawed, then the therapy must be flawed too. Freud ignored individual differences. Critics claim that some therapists are not helping patients recover repressed memories. Instead, they are planting 'false memories' into their patients' minds.

Sum up chief exponent: Sigmund Freud. Dream analysis or free talking Associates: Anna Freud, Adler, Erickson. Two tripolar process 1) conscious, subconscious, unconcious. 2) id -pleasure, ego - reality principle, superego - moral principles.

Multiple choice Questions

1. __________ is a group of individuals who share certain fundamentals, methodology or theoretical points of view ? A Gang B Friends C Family D School

2. The theory of the human mind and a therapeutic practice is known as? Psychology B Functionalism C Psychoanalysis D Behaviorism

3. In which year Freud coined the term "psychoanalysis" ? 1888 B 1896 C 1991 D 1989

4. One of the main disadvantages of Psychoanalysis is "Freud ignored ____________ differences ? Group B Individual C Monitory D Racial

5. Psychoanalysis is considered as an effective therapy for dealing with __________ disorders ? Behavioral B Physical C Mental D Anxiety

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