Posts Tagged ‘Object relations theory’
Humanistic models
Posted by admin in psychopathology on June 20th, 2009
Humanistic models partly developed as a reaction against what appeared to be the determinism implicit in psychoanalysis and behaviourism. In psychoanalysis, especially if understood from a Freudian perspective before object relations theory, there was a rather pessimistic view of human nature that portrayed people as basically driven by sexual and aggressive impulses that have to be contained. Behaviourism was also seen as objectifying and dehumanizing, emphasizing environmental forces as determinants of behaviour. In contrast, the humanistic approach was to emphasize human nature as essentially positive, valued choice, values and purpose in life; and psychopathology is seen as the failure to fulfil the natural potential for personal growth. Read the rest of this entry »
Erik Erikson
Posted by admin in psychopathology on June 19th, 2009
Ego psychology introduced a significant departure from traditional psychoanalysis, since it represents a shift in focus from the id to the ego. One of its best-known proponents is Erikson. Whereas Freud outlined stages of psychosexual development, Erikson offers a psychosocial stage theory that emphasizes social tasks and associated conflicts throughout the lifespan (Erikson 1963). Each of Erikson’s stages is dependent on the development of the preceding stage and the unfolding of each stage is based on two underlying basic assumptions. First, the steps are predetermined, so that the individual is ready to be motivated towards growth and development and prepared to interact with a widening social radius. Second, society tends to be constituted so as to encourage and safeguard the proper rate and sequence of the stages. Read the rest of this entry »