Question

In Freudian psychoanalysis, how is the development of personality and psychopathology described?

A) By the influence of cognitive restructuring and environmental factors during childhood
B) Through the impact of genetic predispositions and hormonal imbalances
C) By the interplay of unconscious conflicts, early childhood experiences, and psychosexual stages
D) Through the dominance of social learning and cultural conditioning in shaping behavior

Answer 1

Freudian psychoanalysis describes personality and psychopathology development through stages of psychosexual development and the resolution of early childhood conflicts (option C).

Step-by-step explanation:

In Freudian psychoanalysis, the development of personality and psychopathology is described by the interplay of unconscious conflicts, early childhood experiences, and psychosexual stages (Option C). Freud suggested that our personality is shaped during early childhood through various stages of psychosexual development. These stages are oral, rectal, phallic, latency, and genital, each associated with specific conflicts and potential outcomes if these conflicts are not properly resolved. If a child does not receive adequate nurturing and parenting during a given stage, it may lead to fixation and influence their adult personality and behavior.

Freud's theories also indicated that our mental life, including the experiences of childhood, takes place largely outside of our conscious awareness, influencing our later life in profound ways.

Hence, the answer is option C.