Psychodynamic Perspective Of Psychology Essay

566 Words2 Pages

Lauren Fitzpatrick
Psychological perspectives

1.
a) The psychodynamic perspective in psychology focuses on the effect subconscious thoughts, memories, and desires have on a person's behavior. Psychodynamic psychologists may examine a person's childhood.
b) The behavioral approach in psychology emphasizes the study of behavior that is visible to observers instead of a person's internal, mental processes. Psychologists that follow this approach use only the scientific method in their research.
c) The humanistic perspective on psychology focuses on qualities they believe separate humans from animals, like potential for growth. Humanists have an optimistic view of human nature and believe that a person's self-image influences behavior.
d) Cognitive psychologists focus on how …show more content…

Factors like race, ethnicity, religion, etc. could mold a person's behavior.

a) A psychodynamic psychologist would analyze Walter's childhood to get insight on his behavior. Walter often felt criticized and abused by his parents as a child. As a result, he is more sensitive as an adult, and frequently feels insulted by those around him. Also, because he views his father as submissive to his (Walter's) mother, he unconsciously tries to separate himself by being demanding of his girlfriends.
b) Behavioral psychologists would ignore Walter's inner thoughts and feelings and only studying his observable behaviors. Behaviorists would ignore heredity and focus on how Walter's environment is influencing his behavior. They would try to identify stimuli for his behavior, like how seeing his ex-girlfriend caused him to become enraged and vengeful.
c)Humanists would remain optimistic and believe that Walter has the ability to improve his behavior. They would try to get him to improve his self-image and stop criticizing himself for his lack of a social

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