Psychoanalysis and Psychodynamic Theory
The psychodynamic theory is a form of psychoanalytic therapy that comprises a group of theories that tries to explain human personality. It aims to explain how both the conscious and unconscious psychological processes influence the behaviours and feelings of a person. The psychodynamic theory is mainly based on Sigmund Feud’s work and psychoanalysis-a form of talk therapy concerned with exploring the unconscious thoughts and emotions in individuals to understand how they influence character.
The psychoanalytic theory was the initial theory developed by Sigmund. He later introduced the Psychodynamic approach, which is all-inclusive as it encompasses multiple theories from other psychologists, including those from Anna Freud, Erik Erikson, and Carl Jung, which are based on his ideas. Sigmund’s theories were all based on what he learned from his patients during the treatment process.
The psychodynamic theory was based on the following assumptions
• Personality comprises the Id, the Ego, and Super-ego
The id forms the basis of a human personality. It comprises all the biological traits acquired during birth, including sex and libido and the aggressive or death instincts. The ego develops later in life and acts as a mediator between the id and real-life situations. Lastly, the super ego comprises values and morals that a person acquires from society.
• Unconscious motives influence our outward behaviours and feelings.
The unconscious part of a human mind is made up of a series of mental processes that cannot be brought to consciousness but have a significant impact on behaviours, feelings, and judgment. They cannot be felt or seen but, substantially, have a powerful influence on decision making and other aspects of human life.
• Experiences during childhood, particularly psychological problems influences behavior in adulthood
The psychodynamic theory believes that childhood events determine personality during adulthood. These memories can remain embedded in the unconscious part of the mind and later impact or cause issues in adulthood. According to Sigmund, the personality of an individual is a blend of different experiences from childhood through the development process.
• An unconscious motive influences each behavior
Sigmund’s psychodynamic theory states that every physical behavior is caused by various unconscious factors that we have no control over. These unconscious factors sometimes can manifest in the conscious state, commonly referred to as Freudian slips or a slip of the tongue. By mistakenly saying something we don’t intend to, we are merely expressing what is really going on inside the mind.
Feud’s work has been one of the most influential in the field of psychology. And like other works, it has also evoked numerous controversies. A good example is when Sigmund suggested that sexual feelings are present in young children and that most of these feelings are directed to the parent. People were displeased and outraged. Nevertheless, the psychodynamic had a critical role in psychology and continues to play a significant role in other disciplines too.

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