This paper presents a discussion of psychoanalytic theory presented by Freud. How this theory explains human behavior/pathology or development, with the strengths and weaknesses of the theory is presented. The historical context of the theory, major contributors to the theory, five concepts from the theory, and an evaluation of the theory from personal religious perspective are provided.
Freud's psychoanalytic theory was presented at the turn of the century. This theory came at a time when behavior was ignored and instead a physiological explanation of human behavior was sought. Freud presented the new notion that human beings had a purpose to their behavior even when behavioral patterns were abnormal. Thus, all behavior according to Freud was goal-directed and not random (Quigley, 2010). Freud's theory was a shock to the times and became a subject of controversy and debate. This theory influenced psychology, sociology, anthropology, art, and literature. Freud's theory as well as the observations and case studies he used to form his theory of personality development have influenced psychology and these other disciplines (Van Wagner, 2010; Zaretsky, 2009).
This theory explains human behavior/pathology or development with the psychosexual stages of development and issues such as the Oedipus complex. For Feud a person goes through the psychosexual stages of development and this is a process driven by biological drives and instincts. If the child's experiences are positive as they relate to the different stages, development is normal. If the child's experiences are negative, the child becomes stuck at the relevant stage of development. The Oedipus complex is at center of the theory and this complex refers to the boys close relationship with the mother which must be abandoned due to fear of castration by the father. Incestuous desires are repressed at this stage. The Oedipal stage is also experienced by the femal...