Question

Explain how the psychodynamic perspective differs from other perspectives in explaining the causes of psychological problems.

Answer 1

Psycho-dynamic approach stems from Freud's Psycho-analytic approach which is not just his work but it combines his followers' works too. It also integrate both nature and nurture sides. One of the major differences is that this therapy looks into the past rather than working from the present. It suggests that unconscious mind plays a major role in determining one's motives and behaviors thus traveling deep into oneself might help the therapist explain the causes of his patient's present behaviors. It assumes that all behaviors are determined as they stem from the unconscious mind. It insists on the impact of childhood experience which is now considered as one of the paramount factor in determining one's normal development and future problems. It proposes three levels of personality people might exhibit such as id, ego and super-ego where id revolves around the pleasure principle, super-ego is ideal and ego strikes a balance between the two. So, understanding the personality of the patient might help the therapist determine further actions.