IOP1601_MO001_3_2016_E

IOP1601/001
Chapter 14 Psychological adjustment
The key to health is homeostasis, that is, balance between the energies of the psychic structures in
order to avoid anxiety and ensure non-threatening child development and non- defensive behaviours.
Measurement by projective techniques (Rorschach, TAT) is based on the rationale of defence,
especially projection.
Chapter 14: Summary
Instructions: This summary is an overview of the chapter and should NOT be
studied as a complete summary.
Freud
is the main exponent of psychoanalytic theory. Psychoanalytical theories are described in
terms of a conflict model in which each person is caught in a lifelong clash between two great forces.
The ideal lifestyle involves a balancing of these two opposing forces. Defence mechanisms areused
to cope with anxieties brought about by conflicting forces.
Jung
and other neo-Freudians had a more optimistic view of human nature, and they
emphasised future directedness, potential growth and the influence of social and interpersonal
factors.
Psychoanalytical thinking is accurate with reference to the notions that:
• Much mental activity is unconscious and this has an impact on emotion and
motivational processes.
• Patterns of attachment developed early in life may be expressed in later
relationships and form the basis for behaviour in later relationships.
• Multiple unconscious mental processes may produce behaviour.
• Individuals are able to regulate their impulses and feelings in socially acceptable ways.
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