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5 Dec 2025

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Psychodynamic Approach in Psychology

The psychodynamic approach reveals how your unconscious mind secretly drives your behaviour, emotions, and personality. Developed by Freud,... Show more

A03
Strength = practical application
→psychoanalysis therapy
→Structaralism = unconscious + conscious

Limitation science
→lack empiricism
→

The Psychodynamic Approach Your Hidden Mind at Work

Ever wondered why you act certain ways without really knowing why? The psychodynamic approach argues that your unconscious mind influences nearly everything you do. Think of it like an iceberg - what you're aware of is just the tip, whilst the massive underwater portion represents all the hidden thoughts and feelings that actually steer your behaviour.

Your mind operates through three competing forces. The id contains your basic drives and desires (like hunger or attraction), whilst the superego acts as your moral conscience. Caught in between, your ego tries to balance these opposing forces. When this system gets out of whack, you might develop abnormal behaviours or mental health issues.

Defence mechanisms are your mind's clever ways of protecting you from psychological pain. Repression buries traumatic memories deep in your unconscious, denial helps you refuse to accept harsh realities, and displacement redirects your emotions onto safer targets (like snapping at your mate when you're really angry with your parents).

Freud believed everyone goes through psychosexual stages during childhood. The oral stage 01years0-1 years focuses on the mouth, the anal stage 13years1-3 years centres on toilet training, and the phallic stage 36years3-6 years involves the infamous Oedipus complex. Getting "stuck" at any stage supposedly creates specific personality traits in adulthood - though modern psychologists are pretty sceptical about this bit!

Quick Tip Remember the three parts of personality with this Id = "I want it now!", Superego = "That's wrong!", Ego = "Let's find a compromise."

We thought you’d never ask...

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Psychosexual development

Sigmund Freud

AP PsychologyAP Psychology

Unit 10: Personality

Based on the Myer's Psychology Textbook

AP PsychologyAP Psychology
10th

Psychodynamic Theory Overview

Explore the key concepts of Psychodynamic Theory, including Freud's psychosexual stages, the unconscious mind, and the tripartite personality model (id, ego, superego). This summary delves into the influence of childhood experiences on adult behavior, the Oedipus complex, and the implications for psychoanalytic therapy. Ideal for psychology students seeking a comprehensive understanding of psychodynamic principles.

PsychologyPsychology
13

Freud's Psychodynamic Insights

Explore Freud's psychodynamic theory, focusing on the unconscious mind, defense mechanisms, and psychosexual development stages. This summary covers key concepts such as the Oedipus complex, libido development, and the impact of early childhood experiences on personality. Ideal for psychology students seeking a concise overview of Freud's influential ideas.

PsychologyPsychology
12

Theories of Personality/Freud Notes

Theories of personality notes. Includes information on Freud, including his parts of personalities, theories of mind, and his psychosexual phases. Also covers basic information on the major neo-freudians & their major theories.

AP PsychologyAP Psychology

Freud's Psychodynamic Theory

Explore Freud's Psychodynamic Theory, focusing on the unconscious mind, the structure of personality (id, ego, superego), and psychosexual stages of development. This summary covers key concepts such as the Oedipus complex, the role of repression, and the implications of psychodynamic therapy. Ideal for psychology students seeking to understand foundational theories in personality development and behavior.

PsychologyPsychology
12

Most popular content in Psychology

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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Psychology

544

5 Dec 2025

1 page

Psychodynamic Approach in Psychology

The psychodynamic approach reveals how your unconscious mind secretly drives your behaviour, emotions, and personality. Developed by Freud, this fascinating theory suggests that childhood experiences and hidden mental conflicts shape who you become as an adult.

A03
Strength = practical application
→psychoanalysis therapy
→Structaralism = unconscious + conscious

Limitation science
→lack empiricism
→

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The Psychodynamic Approach: Your Hidden Mind at Work

Ever wondered why you act certain ways without really knowing why? The psychodynamic approach argues that your unconscious mind influences nearly everything you do. Think of it like an iceberg - what you're aware of is just the tip, whilst the massive underwater portion represents all the hidden thoughts and feelings that actually steer your behaviour.

Your mind operates through three competing forces. The id contains your basic drives and desires (like hunger or attraction), whilst the superego acts as your moral conscience. Caught in between, your ego tries to balance these opposing forces. When this system gets out of whack, you might develop abnormal behaviours or mental health issues.

Defence mechanisms are your mind's clever ways of protecting you from psychological pain. Repression buries traumatic memories deep in your unconscious, denial helps you refuse to accept harsh realities, and displacement redirects your emotions onto safer targets (like snapping at your mate when you're really angry with your parents).

Freud believed everyone goes through psychosexual stages during childhood. The oral stage 01years0-1 years focuses on the mouth, the anal stage 13years1-3 years centres on toilet training, and the phallic stage 36years3-6 years involves the infamous Oedipus complex. Getting "stuck" at any stage supposedly creates specific personality traits in adulthood - though modern psychologists are pretty sceptical about this bit!

Quick Tip: Remember the three parts of personality with this: Id = "I want it now!", Superego = "That's wrong!", Ego = "Let's find a compromise."

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

12

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Psychosexual development

Sigmund Freud

AP PsychologyAP Psychology

Unit 10: Personality

Based on the Myer's Psychology Textbook

AP PsychologyAP Psychology
10th

Psychodynamic Theory Overview

Explore the key concepts of Psychodynamic Theory, including Freud's psychosexual stages, the unconscious mind, and the tripartite personality model (id, ego, superego). This summary delves into the influence of childhood experiences on adult behavior, the Oedipus complex, and the implications for psychoanalytic therapy. Ideal for psychology students seeking a comprehensive understanding of psychodynamic principles.

PsychologyPsychology
13

Freud's Psychodynamic Insights

Explore Freud's psychodynamic theory, focusing on the unconscious mind, defense mechanisms, and psychosexual development stages. This summary covers key concepts such as the Oedipus complex, libido development, and the impact of early childhood experiences on personality. Ideal for psychology students seeking a concise overview of Freud's influential ideas.

PsychologyPsychology
12

Theories of Personality/Freud Notes

Theories of personality notes. Includes information on Freud, including his parts of personalities, theories of mind, and his psychosexual phases. Also covers basic information on the major neo-freudians & their major theories.

AP PsychologyAP Psychology

Freud's Psychodynamic Theory

Explore Freud's Psychodynamic Theory, focusing on the unconscious mind, the structure of personality (id, ego, superego), and psychosexual stages of development. This summary covers key concepts such as the Oedipus complex, the role of repression, and the implications of psychodynamic therapy. Ideal for psychology students seeking to understand foundational theories in personality development and behavior.

PsychologyPsychology
12

Most popular content in Psychology

Most popular content

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user