Psychodynamic Perspective Essay

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Psychodynamic Perspective
Sigmund Freud developed one of the first and most influential psychodynamic theories on personality. He used free association in which the patient or client shared any thoughts they had; with this, he concluded one’s personality was based on childhood events and basic drives, such as the need to eat. These basic drives can be found in the unconscious mind, which is the largest part of the mind. Here, unaware thoughts, desires and deeply-hidden memories lie. Above it is the preconscious mind, where information not currently in use but that can be easily accessible can be found. Lastly, is the conscious mind which is made up of thoughts, emotions, and actions one is currently experiencing. In comparing it to an iceberg, …show more content…

Because of its foundations, therapy is based on an unconditional positive regard which is full support of the client by the therapist. Carl Rogers also added to this active listening and Fritz Perls added Gestalt therapy. Another important aspect of the humanistic perspective is the hierarchy of needs that has five levels. Developed by Abraham Maslow, an American psychology who believed self-actualization is needed to feel satisfied and comfortable, the hierarchy of needs states each level must be fulfilled in order to reach the next, starting with physiological needs and ending with self-actualization. This means self-actualization is unattainable by many. For example, for me or my family to reach the top of the pyramid we must first have our physiological needs met, then our safety, love, and self-esteem. But, if one of my family members is missing self-esteem, they cannot reach the top. With the humanistic perspective, this means my family member will not ever feel fully satisfied. This perspective, however, also provides a positive and encouraging type of therapy, meaning if my family members or me is missing something, therapy will take a positive and supporting role and will be able to overcome said challenge. In the end, the humanistic approach can applied to help me or my family members reach

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