Psychology was still a new science at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century and Freud’s theory and therapy methods were revolutionary. The concept of the unconscious was also unique.
First, he developed a topographical model of the mind. According to this the mind functions on three levels of consciousness, the conscious includes what we are aware of, the preconscious consists of memories that can be brought back to awareness and the unconscious contains what we are unaware of. This also includes memories and experiences that are too painful to bear and they are repressed.
Later, Freud developed a structural model of the mind, which consists of the Id, the Ego and the Superego. The Id, which develops at the age of 2, functions in the unconscious and operates on the pleasure principle and seeks immediate satisfaction. Instinctual impulses belong here such as sex and aggression.
The Ego operates on the reality principle, this is the rational part of the mind. It leads to socially acceptable behaviours. It regulates the impulses of the Id.
The Superego, which operates on the morality principle, develops at the age of three. It is composed of internalised values of parental or authority figures. However, the Superego can be excessively punishing, as a result of authoritative parenting, which can lead to depression or anxiety.
The Ego should keep the balance between the demands of the Id and the Superego. The aim of therapy is to strengthen the Ego. Clients who can benefit from a psychodynamic approach include people with depression, anorexia, addiction, people who repeat destructive patterns of behaviour and also those who are interested in personal growth and increased self-awareness.
Bibliography:
Michael Jacobs, Psychodynamic Counselling in Action (Counselling in Action series) SAGE Publications Ltd; Fifth edition, 2017
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