Psychoanalytic Theory

Psychoanalytic theory combines a view of normal development with an approach to therapeutic intervention that helps to reduce symptoms associated with mental disorders. Psychoanalytic theory provides a framework for considering the complex interplay among stages of life, drives or motives, levels of consciousness, and mental structures that combine to produce personality and interpersonal behavior. The theory explains how problems with anxiety, fears about loss of control, and conflicts about expressing and controlling impulses and drives can be disruptive factors at any stage of life. The chapter provides an overview of the historical context within which psychoanalytic theory emerged, with particular focus on the works of Sigmund Freud and the extensions of the theory in ego psychology and object relations theory. Key concepts are introduced, including domains of consciousness, drives, structures of personality, stages of development, defense mechanisms, identification, and transference. The research topic focuses on the efficacy of psychodynamic therapy. The applied topic addresses the contribution of psychoanalytic theory for parenting. Each of the basic questions that a theory of human development is expected to address is considered for psychoanalytic theory. The chapter closes with an analysis of the strengths and limitations of the theory.