Psychodynamic and Humanistic Theories of Personality Chapter Notes | AP Psychology - Grade 11 PDF Download

Introduction

Psychodynamic Theory of Personality

Freud proposed the mind consists of three components:

• Id: Seeks immediate gratification, ignoring consequences.
• Ego: Mediates between the id’s impulses and reality, ensuring socially appropriate actions.
• Superego: Acts as our moral compass, enforcing ethical standards.

The interactions among these components create internal conflicts that shape personality and can lead to emotional challenges.

Note: Freud’s psychosexual stage theory is not included in the AP Psychology exam.

Ego Defense Mechanisms

Defense mechanisms are unconscious strategies the mind uses to cope with stress and uncomfortable emotions. They distort reality to reduce anxiety, allowing us to navigate challenging situations. 

Common defense mechanisms include:

• Denial: Refusing to acknowledge a painful truth, e.g., someone with a substance abuse issue claiming, "I don’t have a problem."
• Displacement: Redirecting emotions to a safer target, e.g., yelling at a loved one after a frustrating day at work.
• Projection: Attributing one’s own feelings to someone else, e.g., accusing a colleague of dishonesty when feeling guilty about lying.
• Rationalization: Creating excuses to justify behavior, e.g., a student blaming a poor grade on a "biased" teacher instead of lack of effort.
• Reaction Formation: Behaving opposite to one’s true feelings, e.g., acting confident to mask insecurity.
• Regression: Reverting to childlike behaviors under stress, e.g., an adult throwing a tantrum during conflict.
• Repression: Blocking distressing memories, e.g., forgetting traumatic childhood events.
• Sublimation: Channeling negative emotions into positive actions, e.g., using anger to fuel a workout or creative project.

Projective Tests for Assessment

Projective tests uncover unconscious thoughts and feelings by asking individuals to interpret ambiguous stimuli. These tests allow the subconscious to influence responses, providing insights into personality. 

Two key examples are:

• Rorschach Inkblot Test: Individuals describe what they see in abstract inkblots. The random nature of the images encourages responses that reflect deeper emotions and thoughts, which psychologists analyze for personality patterns.
• Thematic Apperception Test (TAT): Individuals create stories based on images of people in various scenarios. Their interpretations reveal emotions, experiences, and personality traits.

These tests focus on response patterns rather than correct or incorrect answers, as interpretations reflect personal perspectives.

Humanistic Theory of Personality

Humanistic theory views personality as a product of personal choices, experiences, and an inherent drive to grow. Unlike psychodynamic theory, it emphasizes conscious self-perception and the pursuit of personal potential over unconscious conflicts.

Core concepts include:

• Unconditional Positive Regard: Being accepted and valued without judgment, fostering a strong self-image and confidence.
• Self-Actualizing Tendency: The innate desire to develop talents, achieve goals, and live a fulfilling life.

Humanistic psychologists assess personality through:

• Interviews and Open-Ended Discussions: Exploring an individual’s self-view and life experiences.
• Self-Report Questionnaires: Examining personal values, growth, and self-perception.

This approach avoids rigid categorizations, focusing on how individuals shape their personalities through conscious decisions and personal development.

Note: Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is not part of the AP Psychology exam.