Psychodynamic Approach Essay

A01- Explain the Psychodynamic approach in Psychology

The psychodynamic approach focuses on the unconscious mind and how it affects our thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Developed by Sigmund Freud, it suggests that early childhood experiences have an impact on our behaviour and how our behaviour is influenced by hidden desires and conflicts we may not be aware of. The approach presents a structure of personality: Id, Ego and Superego. The Id being our primal desires and demanding instant gratification, Superego being the complete opposite and opposing the Id and pushing to operate in a civilised manner, Ego being the mediator between the two, choosing the best decision that both satisfies the Id but in a realistic, civilised manner. These

John Bowlby, a prominent figure in the field of developmental psychology, proposed Attachment Theory, which focuses on the early bond between infants and their primary caregivers. Bowlby suggested that disruptions in this bond can have long-term effects on an individual's psychological development. He argued that early attachment experiences influence the formation of internal working models, which shape later relationships and behaviours. This study supports the psychodynamic approach by highlighting the significance of early childhood experiences in shaping personality and behaviour. It emphasises the role of unconscious mental representations and the lasting impact of early relationships on

He argued that Freud's theories lacked scientific rigour and were based on subjective interpretations rather than objective data. Eysenck concluded that the effectiveness of psychoanalysis was not significantly better than other therapeutic approaches. This study refutes the psychodynamic approach by challenging the empirical basis and scientific validity of Freudian theories. It suggests that the psychodynamic approach may not be as scientifically robust as proponents claim, undermining its credibility in explaining human