Ready to tackle two major psychological approaches that'll definitely come...
Psychology394 views·Updated 2 Aug 2026·2 pagesUnderstanding Key Approaches in Psychology
Zed@zknowunity
1
of 2
The Psychodynamic Approach
Ever wondered why you sometimes act in ways that surprise even yourself? The psychodynamic approach suggests it's all down to your unconscious mind - the hidden part of your brain that influences everything you do without you realising it.
Freud's famous theory breaks your personality into three parts: the id (your pleasure-seeking, impulsive side), the superego (your moral conscience that makes you feel guilty), and the ego (the referee that tries to balance them both). These develop through psychosexual stages in childhood - oral, anal, phallic, latent, and genital - where conflicts can shape your adult personality.
When these parts clash, your ego uses defence mechanisms like repression (burying traumatic memories), denial (refusing to accept reality), and displacement (taking anger out on the wrong person). These happen automatically to protect you from anxiety.
Quick Exam Tip: Remember the acronym "IDE" - Id wants pleasure, Determination (ego) seeks reality, Ethics (superego) demands morality.
The approach struggles with scientific credibility since you can't exactly measure the unconscious mind in a lab. Critics like Popper argue it's pseudoscience because it can't be proven wrong. However, it's brilliant at explaining everything from mental health issues to why you accidentally called your teacher "mum" (Freudian slip, anyone?). Plus, it genuinely helped society understand psychological distress better.
2
of 2
Humanistic Psychology
Forget being controlled by unconscious forces - humanistic psychology believes you're the boss of your own life! This approach celebrates free will and argues that you have the power to choose your path, regardless of your biology or circumstances.
Maslow's hierarchy of needs is like a ladder you climb towards becoming your best self. Start with basic needs (food, safety), move up to psychological needs (love, self-esteem), and eventually reach self-actualisation - basically becoming the person you're truly meant to be.
Rogers focused on the gap between your actual self and your ideal self. When these match up (congruence), you're sorted. But conditions of worth - when you only get love for behaving certain ways - can mess this up. That's why client-centred therapy offers unconditional positive regard, accepting you completely as you are.
Remember This: Humanistic = Humans have potential. It's optimistic psychology that believes in your ability to grow and change.
Whilst the therapy works well for many people, the approach gets criticism for cultural bias - its focus on individual achievement doesn't fit collectivist cultures that prioritise group needs. The biggest problem? Concepts like self-actualisation are nearly impossible to test scientifically, making it seem more like philosophy than psychology to some critics.
We thought you’d never ask...
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.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Similar content
Most popular content: Humanistic Psychology
6PsychologyPsychology Approaches Overview
Comprehensive notes on key psychological approaches including the Psychodynamic and Humanistic theories. This resource covers essential concepts, evaluations, and applications, making it ideal for exam preparation. Key topics include Freud's psychosexual stages, defense mechanisms, Maslow's hierarchy of needs, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
129,377438
PsychologyKey Psychological Approaches
Explore essential psychological approaches for A-Level Psychology (AQA) in this comprehensive mindmap. Covering the origins of psychology, social learning theory, cognitive approach, biological approach, behaviorism, psychodynamic theory, and humanistic psychology, this resource highlights key concepts, strengths, and limitations of each approach. Ideal for exam revision and understanding foundational theories in psychology.
121,59319
PsychologyHumanistic Psychology Overview
Explore the key concepts of Humanistic Psychology, including self-actualisation, congruence, and client-centered therapy. This summary evaluates the strengths and limitations of the humanistic approach, emphasizing its focus on personal growth and the importance of unconditional positive regard. Ideal for students studying psychological approaches and Maslow's hierarchy of needs.
121,73467
PsychologyHumanistic Psychology Overview
Explore the key principles of Humanistic Psychology, including Carl Rogers' client-centered therapy, unconditional positive regard, and Maslow's hierarchy of needs. This summary highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the approach, its cultural implications, and its significance in modern psychotherapy. Ideal for A-Level psychology students seeking to understand human motivation and personal growth.
126458
PsychologyHumanistic Psychology Insights
Explore the key concepts of Humanistic Psychology, including Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, self-actualization, and the importance of unconditional positive regard in client-centered therapy. This summary highlights the strengths and limitations of the humanistic approach, particularly in relation to cultural biases and individual versus collectivist perspectives. Ideal for psychology students seeking to understand the practical applications of these theories.
1256810
PsychologyHumanistic Psychology Overview
Explore the humanistic approach in psychology, focusing on key concepts such as self-actualization, unconditional positive regard, and the phenomenological perspective. This summary evaluates the strengths and limitations of the approach, highlighting its emphasis on personal growth, subjective experiences, and the development of client-centered therapy. Ideal for AQA Paper 2 preparation.
122062
Most popular content in Psychology
9PsychologyIssues and Debates
AQA paper 3 alevel psychology topic 9 - issues and debates - full active recall questions - notion.
121,08726
PsychologyForensic Psychology Overview
Comprehensive revision notes covering key concepts in forensic psychology for AQA A Level Psychology. Explore topics such as offender profiling, criminal personality, behavioral approaches, and the impact of socialization on criminal behavior. Ideal for students preparing for exams and seeking a deeper understanding of the psychological aspects of crime and punishment.
126,947283
PsychologyTheories of Romantic Relationships
Explore key theories and concepts in romantic relationships, including Social Exchange Theory, Equity Theory, and Duck's Phase Model. Understand factors affecting attraction such as self-disclosure, physical attractiveness, and the dynamics of virtual and parasocial relationships. This comprehensive summary is essential for AQA A Level Psychology students.
124,762163
PsychologyKey Psychological Approaches
Explore essential concepts in A-Level AQA Psychology, including the Biological, Behavioural, Cognitive, Humanistic, and Psychodynamic approaches. This comprehensive summary covers key theories, evaluations, and applications, providing a solid foundation for understanding psychological principles. Ideal for exam preparation and revision.
128009
PsychologyBiopsychology Key Concepts
Explore essential biopsychology concepts including circadian rhythms, brain structure, and neurobiology. This comprehensive summary covers the nervous system, hormonal coordination, and the impact of brain plasticity on behavior. Ideal for AQA A Level Psychology revision.
1212,978612
PsychologyA Level AQA Biopsychology Content Mindmap
Biopsychology Content Mind Maps, DOES NOT CONTAIN RESEARCH OR EVALUATION
122,09047
PsychologySocial Influence Overview
Explore key concepts in social influence, including conformity, obedience, and minority influence. This comprehensive summary covers essential studies such as Milgram's experiment, Asch's conformity tests, and the Stanford prison experiment, providing insights into the psychological mechanisms behind social behavior. Ideal for A-Level revision.
127,510321
PsychologyAQA A Level Sociology Research Methods
Includes all research methods
122,16869
PsychologyForensic Psychology
AQA paper 3 alevel psychology topic 12 - forensics - full active recall questions - notion.
1268312
Most popular content
9
SociologySociology of Families: Comprehensive Revision
Dive into an extensive overview of family dynamics, perspectives, and patterns in sociology. This resource covers key concepts such as family diversity, gender roles, marriage, and the impact of social policies on family structures. Perfect for A-Level Sociology students preparing for Paper 2.
1273,8382,306
SociologyComprehensive Crime & Deviance Overview
Explore an extensive revision of crime and deviance topics, including theories, types of crime, and the impact of media. This resource covers key concepts such as Marxism, functionalism, gender and crime, and the influence of globalization on criminal behavior. Ideal for students seeking a thorough understanding of criminology and its various theories. Type: Full Topic Revision.
1251,6921,401
CriminologyCriminology: Crime & Punishment Overview
Comprehensive mindmaps covering key concepts in the Crime and Punishment topic for WJEC Criminology Unit 4. This resource includes detailed insights into the Criminal Justice System, crime prevention strategies, sentencing models, and the roles of various agencies. Ideal for A-Level revision, ensuring you grasp essential theories and legislative processes to excel in your exams.
1254,9091,061
SociologySociology of Education Overview
Explore comprehensive A-Level Sociology notes on the education system, covering key theories, policies, and sociological perspectives. This resource includes insights on marketisation, gender roles, cultural deprivation, and educational inequalities, providing a thorough understanding of how education shapes social stratification and individual achievement. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth study.
12103,0103,041
C
BiologyCell Biology and Cell structure
cell structures
113,3250
CriminologyWJEC Unit 4 Criminology
Criminology unit 4 detailed revision note
127,182125
English LanguageLanguage Paper 1 Strategies
Master the AQA English Language Paper 1 with this comprehensive guide. Explore key strategies for language and structural analysis, critical evaluation, and creative writing. Learn how to effectively analyze texts, utilize literary techniques, and enhance your writing skills to excel in your exams.
928,577896
SociologyMedia Studies: Key Concepts & Theories
Dive into the essential concepts and theories of media studies for AQA A-level Sociology. This comprehensive revision guide covers topics such as media influence, representations, globalization, and sociological perspectives, ensuring you grasp the critical elements needed for your exams. Perfect for students seeking to enhance their understanding of media's role in society.
1222,745514
SociologySociological Theories Overview
Comprehensive revision of key sociological theories including Functionalism, Marxism, Feminism, and Interpretivism. Explore concepts like value freedom, identity formation, and the critique of social control. Ideal for AQA A-Level Sociology students preparing for exams. This summary covers essential theories and their implications in sociology, providing a clear understanding of each perspective.
1231,518846
Students love us — and so will you.
4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google 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 SiOS 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 KlichAndroid 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.
AnnaiOS user
Psychology394 views·Updated 2 Aug 2026·2 pagesUnderstanding Key Approaches in Psychology
Zed@zknowunity
Ready to tackle two major psychological approaches that'll definitely come up in your exams? The psychodynamic and humanistic approaches offer completely different views on what drives human behaviour - one focuses on unconscious conflicts from childhood, whilst the other celebrates...
1
of 2
Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The Psychodynamic Approach
Ever wondered why you sometimes act in ways that surprise even yourself? The psychodynamic approach suggests it's all down to your unconscious mind - the hidden part of your brain that influences everything you do without you realising it.
Freud's famous theory breaks your personality into three parts: the id (your pleasure-seeking, impulsive side), the superego (your moral conscience that makes you feel guilty), and the ego (the referee that tries to balance them both). These develop through psychosexual stages in childhood - oral, anal, phallic, latent, and genital - where conflicts can shape your adult personality.
When these parts clash, your ego uses defence mechanisms like repression (burying traumatic memories), denial (refusing to accept reality), and displacement (taking anger out on the wrong person). These happen automatically to protect you from anxiety.
Quick Exam Tip: Remember the acronym "IDE" - Id wants pleasure, Determination (ego) seeks reality, Ethics (superego) demands morality.
The approach struggles with scientific credibility since you can't exactly measure the unconscious mind in a lab. Critics like Popper argue it's pseudoscience because it can't be proven wrong. However, it's brilliant at explaining everything from mental health issues to why you accidentally called your teacher "mum" (Freudian slip, anyone?). Plus, it genuinely helped society understand psychological distress better.
2
of 2Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Humanistic Psychology
Forget being controlled by unconscious forces - humanistic psychology believes you're the boss of your own life! This approach celebrates free will and argues that you have the power to choose your path, regardless of your biology or circumstances.
Maslow's hierarchy of needs is like a ladder you climb towards becoming your best self. Start with basic needs (food, safety), move up to psychological needs (love, self-esteem), and eventually reach self-actualisation - basically becoming the person you're truly meant to be.
Rogers focused on the gap between your actual self and your ideal self. When these match up (congruence), you're sorted. But conditions of worth - when you only get love for behaving certain ways - can mess this up. That's why client-centred therapy offers unconditional positive regard, accepting you completely as you are.
Remember This: Humanistic = Humans have potential. It's optimistic psychology that believes in your ability to grow and change.
Whilst the therapy works well for many people, the approach gets criticism for cultural bias - its focus on individual achievement doesn't fit collectivist cultures that prioritise group needs. The biggest problem? Concepts like self-actualisation are nearly impossible to test scientifically, making it seem more like philosophy than psychology to some critics.
We thought you’d never ask...
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.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Similar content
Most popular content: Humanistic Psychology
6PsychologyPsychology Approaches Overview
Comprehensive notes on key psychological approaches including the Psychodynamic and Humanistic theories. This resource covers essential concepts, evaluations, and applications, making it ideal for exam preparation. Key topics include Freud's psychosexual stages, defense mechanisms, Maslow's hierarchy of needs, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
129,377438
PsychologyKey Psychological Approaches
Explore essential psychological approaches for A-Level Psychology (AQA) in this comprehensive mindmap. Covering the origins of psychology, social learning theory, cognitive approach, biological approach, behaviorism, psychodynamic theory, and humanistic psychology, this resource highlights key concepts, strengths, and limitations of each approach. Ideal for exam revision and understanding foundational theories in psychology.
121,59319
PsychologyHumanistic Psychology Overview
Explore the key concepts of Humanistic Psychology, including self-actualisation, congruence, and client-centered therapy. This summary evaluates the strengths and limitations of the humanistic approach, emphasizing its focus on personal growth and the importance of unconditional positive regard. Ideal for students studying psychological approaches and Maslow's hierarchy of needs.
121,73467
PsychologyHumanistic Psychology Overview
Explore the key principles of Humanistic Psychology, including Carl Rogers' client-centered therapy, unconditional positive regard, and Maslow's hierarchy of needs. This summary highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the approach, its cultural implications, and its significance in modern psychotherapy. Ideal for A-Level psychology students seeking to understand human motivation and personal growth.
126458
PsychologyHumanistic Psychology Insights
Explore the key concepts of Humanistic Psychology, including Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, self-actualization, and the importance of unconditional positive regard in client-centered therapy. This summary highlights the strengths and limitations of the humanistic approach, particularly in relation to cultural biases and individual versus collectivist perspectives. Ideal for psychology students seeking to understand the practical applications of these theories.
1256810
PsychologyHumanistic Psychology Overview
Explore the humanistic approach in psychology, focusing on key concepts such as self-actualization, unconditional positive regard, and the phenomenological perspective. This summary evaluates the strengths and limitations of the approach, highlighting its emphasis on personal growth, subjective experiences, and the development of client-centered therapy. Ideal for AQA Paper 2 preparation.
122062
Most popular content in Psychology
9PsychologyIssues and Debates
AQA paper 3 alevel psychology topic 9 - issues and debates - full active recall questions - notion.
121,08726
PsychologyForensic Psychology Overview
Comprehensive revision notes covering key concepts in forensic psychology for AQA A Level Psychology. Explore topics such as offender profiling, criminal personality, behavioral approaches, and the impact of socialization on criminal behavior. Ideal for students preparing for exams and seeking a deeper understanding of the psychological aspects of crime and punishment.
126,947283
PsychologyTheories of Romantic Relationships
Explore key theories and concepts in romantic relationships, including Social Exchange Theory, Equity Theory, and Duck's Phase Model. Understand factors affecting attraction such as self-disclosure, physical attractiveness, and the dynamics of virtual and parasocial relationships. This comprehensive summary is essential for AQA A Level Psychology students.
124,762163
PsychologyKey Psychological Approaches
Explore essential concepts in A-Level AQA Psychology, including the Biological, Behavioural, Cognitive, Humanistic, and Psychodynamic approaches. This comprehensive summary covers key theories, evaluations, and applications, providing a solid foundation for understanding psychological principles. Ideal for exam preparation and revision.
128009
PsychologyBiopsychology Key Concepts
Explore essential biopsychology concepts including circadian rhythms, brain structure, and neurobiology. This comprehensive summary covers the nervous system, hormonal coordination, and the impact of brain plasticity on behavior. Ideal for AQA A Level Psychology revision.
1212,978612
PsychologyA Level AQA Biopsychology Content Mindmap
Biopsychology Content Mind Maps, DOES NOT CONTAIN RESEARCH OR EVALUATION
122,09047
PsychologySocial Influence Overview
Explore key concepts in social influence, including conformity, obedience, and minority influence. This comprehensive summary covers essential studies such as Milgram's experiment, Asch's conformity tests, and the Stanford prison experiment, providing insights into the psychological mechanisms behind social behavior. Ideal for A-Level revision.
127,510321
PsychologyAQA A Level Sociology Research Methods
Includes all research methods
122,16869
PsychologyForensic Psychology
AQA paper 3 alevel psychology topic 12 - forensics - full active recall questions - notion.
1268312
Most popular content
9SociologySociology of Families: Comprehensive Revision
Dive into an extensive overview of family dynamics, perspectives, and patterns in sociology. This resource covers key concepts such as family diversity, gender roles, marriage, and the impact of social policies on family structures. Perfect for A-Level Sociology students preparing for Paper 2.
1273,8382,306
SociologyComprehensive Crime & Deviance Overview
Explore an extensive revision of crime and deviance topics, including theories, types of crime, and the impact of media. This resource covers key concepts such as Marxism, functionalism, gender and crime, and the influence of globalization on criminal behavior. Ideal for students seeking a thorough understanding of criminology and its various theories. Type: Full Topic Revision.
1251,6921,401
CriminologyCriminology: Crime & Punishment Overview
Comprehensive mindmaps covering key concepts in the Crime and Punishment topic for WJEC Criminology Unit 4. This resource includes detailed insights into the Criminal Justice System, crime prevention strategies, sentencing models, and the roles of various agencies. Ideal for A-Level revision, ensuring you grasp essential theories and legislative processes to excel in your exams.
1254,9091,061
SociologySociology of Education Overview
Explore comprehensive A-Level Sociology notes on the education system, covering key theories, policies, and sociological perspectives. This resource includes insights on marketisation, gender roles, cultural deprivation, and educational inequalities, providing a thorough understanding of how education shapes social stratification and individual achievement. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth study.
12103,0103,041
C
BiologyCell Biology and Cell structure
cell structures
113,3250
CriminologyWJEC Unit 4 Criminology
Criminology unit 4 detailed revision note
127,182125
English LanguageLanguage Paper 1 Strategies
Master the AQA English Language Paper 1 with this comprehensive guide. Explore key strategies for language and structural analysis, critical evaluation, and creative writing. Learn how to effectively analyze texts, utilize literary techniques, and enhance your writing skills to excel in your exams.
928,577896
SociologyMedia Studies: Key Concepts & Theories
Dive into the essential concepts and theories of media studies for AQA A-level Sociology. This comprehensive revision guide covers topics such as media influence, representations, globalization, and sociological perspectives, ensuring you grasp the critical elements needed for your exams. Perfect for students seeking to enhance their understanding of media's role in society.
1222,745514
SociologySociological Theories Overview
Comprehensive revision of key sociological theories including Functionalism, Marxism, Feminism, and Interpretivism. Explore concepts like value freedom, identity formation, and the critique of social control. Ideal for AQA A-Level Sociology students preparing for exams. This summary covers essential theories and their implications in sociology, providing a clear understanding of each perspective.
1231,518846
Students love us — and so will you.
4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google 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 SiOS 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 KlichAndroid 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.
AnnaiOS user