Independent Review Of Literature Using Topical References

Independent Review of Literature Using the Topical Reference List Read

This paper presents a comprehensive review of existing research studies related to the development of personality and psychological theories, focusing on the contributions of neo-Freudian theorists such as Erik Erikson, and comparing their perspectives with the foundational ideas of Sigmund Freud. The review aims to synthesize findings from five selected studies to identify converging and diverging viewpoints, analyze the methodologies employed, and explore support and contradictions concerning the proposed hypotheses about personality development. Additionally, the paper justifies the need for further research to deepen understanding of these theoretical frameworks and their implications for contemporary therapy and psychological practice.

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The development of personality has long been a focal point in psychological research, with numerous theories attempting to explain the complex interplay between biological, environmental, and social factors. Among these, Freudian psychoanalysis and neo-Freudian theories, such as those proposed by Erik Erikson, have significantly shaped the understanding of human development. Analyzing the existing body of literature reveals both supporting evidence and areas requiring further investigation, especially regarding the influence of social contexts and relational dynamics.

Freud's theory emphasized the psychosexual stages, asserting that early childhood experiences shape personality by resolving conflicts at different developmental stages (Freud, 1905). However, critiques of Freud point out that his model underestimates the role of social influences and the lifespan perspective on development. In contrast, Erikson's psychosocial development theory expanded upon Freud's concepts by incorporating social and cultural aspects, emphasizing that personality evolves through resolving crises at each stage across the entire lifespan (Erikson, 1950). These distinctions have been substantiated through various research studies.

One influential study by Sneed et al. (2012) examined the relationship between identity development, intimacy, and well-being in midlife, aligning with Erikson's stage of intimacy versus isolation. This longitudinal research employed quantitative methods, including surveys and standardized assessments, and found that successful resolution of earlier psychosocial crises correlates with increased psychological well-being in middle age. These findings bolster Erikson's lifespan perspective and suggest that early psychosocial development has enduring effects. Conversely, some research, or critiques, argue that such models may not fully account for individual differences and cultural variations in development (Kroger, 2007).

Further, studies have explored the influence of the social environment postulated by neo-Freudians. Siddiqui (2011) investigated the impact of parental involvement on children's stress levels, highlighting that neglect or absence of parental support can predispose children to stress-related difficulties. This study used qualitative interviews and longitudinal tracking, providing support for the notion that early relational factors significantly impact personality formation. However, it also pointed out that personality development is multifaceted and cannot be solely attributed to parent-child interactions, echoing the consensus that multiple influences must be considered (Siddiqui, 2011).

Although most research supports the idea that parent-child relationships and social contexts influence personality development, some findings challenge the universality of these theories. For instance, a review examining cross-cultural differences suggested that in collectivist societies, family dynamics may operate differently, thus modifying developmental trajectories (Kim et al., 2015). This indicates that cultural variables are crucial and that theories focusing predominantly on individual-centric development may not fully encompass global diversity. Therefore, continued research is warranted to adapt these models to diverse populations.

Regarding the comparison of Freud and neo-Freudian theories, recent research supports the more inclusive nature of Erikson's lifespan approach, emphasizing that age-specific crises influence emotional and social functioning into later life (Sneed et al., 2012). Freud's focus on early childhood and sexuality, while foundational, appears limited in scope. Conversely, neo-Freudians' recognition of social and cultural influences renders their theories more applicable across different contexts and life stages, which is crucial for modern therapeutic practices.

Furthermore, neurobiological research increasingly supports the importance of social relationships in personality development. For example, studies on neural plasticity demonstrate that positive social interactions can lead to lasting changes in brain structures associated with emotion regulation and identity (Davidson & McEwen, 2012). These findings further validate Erikson's emphasis on the social environment and suggest practical implications for therapy aimed at enhancing social connectedness and resilience.

In conclusion, the reviewed studies collectively affirm that neo-Freudian theories, especially Erikson's psychosocial model, offer a more comprehensive and adaptable framework for understanding personality development than Freud's psychosexual stages. Nonetheless, existing research underscores the need for further empirical exploration, particularly multicultural studies, to refine these theories and enhance their applicability. Addressing these gaps will lead to more effective psychological interventions tailored to diverse populations, thereby advancing both theoretical knowledge and clinical practice.

References

• Davidson, R. J., & McEwen, B. S. (2012). Social influences on neuroplasticity: Stress and recovery. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 16(12), 683-690. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2012.10.002
• Erikson, E. H. (1950). Childhood and society. W. W. Norton & Company.
• Freud, S. (1905). Three essays on the theory of sexuality. Basic Books.
• Kroger, J. (2007). Identity development: Adolescence through adulthood. Sage Publications.
• Kim, Y. H., Sherman, D. K., & Taylor, S. E. (2015). Culture and social support. American Psychologist, 70(6), 531-544. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0039117
• Siddiqui, I. J. (2011). Lack of Parental Involvement: Stress Prone Children. International Journal Of Education & Allied Sciences, 3(2), 43-48.
• Sneed, J., Whitbourne, S., Schwartz, S., & Huang, S. (2012). The relationship between identity, intimacy, and midlife well-being: Findings from the Rochester Adult Longitudinal Study. Psychology & Aging, 27(2), 340–352. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0026900