Prior To Beginning Work On This Discussion, Be Sure T 402881

Prior To Beginning Work On This Discussion Be Sure to Read Chapters 2

Prior to beginning work on this discussion be sure to read Chapters 2 and 3 in your text, review the Iurato (2015) “A brief comparison of the unconscious as seen by Jung and Levi-Strauss” article, and review the Sigmund Freud: The Unconscious mind video and Carl Jung: Archetypes and Analytical Psychology website. In addition to the required resources, research a minimum of one scholarly source in the Ashford University Library on this topic. The unconscious mind is a core concept in most psychoanalytical and psychodynamic theories, but Freud and Jung’s theories are the most developed and prominent.

Your text, the required readings, and media have presented the two theories. In your initial post of a minimum of 350 words, present an overview of both Freud’s theory and Jung’s theory of the role of the unconscious mind as it pertains to personality and behavior. Then, compare and contrast the basic assumptions of the two theories, noting the similarities and differences as they relate to human behavior. Based on your reading and research, explain which interpretation of the unconscious mind you support.

Paper For Above instruction

The unconscious mind is a fundamental element within psychoanalytic and psychodynamic frameworks, serving as a repository of thoughts, feelings, and memories that are outside conscious awareness. Two of the most influential theorists in this domain are Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung, each offering distinct perspectives on the role of the unconscious in shaping personality and behavior. This essay provides an overview of their theories, compares their core assumptions, highlights similarities and differences, and states a personal stance supported by scholarly research.

Sigmund Freud’s theory of the unconscious is central to his broader psychoanalytic model. Freud conceptualized the unconscious as a reservoir of repressed desires, traumatic memories, and instinctual drives mainly stemming from childhood that remain hidden beneath conscious awareness. He proposed that these unconscious forces significantly influence conscious thoughts and behaviors, often manifesting through symptoms, slips of the tongue, or dreams. Freud’s model divides the psyche into three structures: the id, ego, and superego. The id operates solely within the unconscious, driven by the pleasure principle and instinctual drives such as aggression and sexuality. The ego mediates between the id and external reality, working to satisfy id impulses in socially acceptable ways. The superego embodies moral standards and societal rules internalized during early development (Freud, 1923). Freud believed that unconscious conflicts among these structures could lead to psychological distress, emphasizing the importance of bringing unconscious material to conscious awareness for healing.

Carl Jung, a contemporary of Freud, also emphasized the unconscious but diverged significantly in his conceptualization. Jung distinguished between the personal unconscious, akin to Freud’s concept, and a collective unconscious — a deeper layer containing archetypes or universal symbols shared across cultures and ancestries. Jung viewed the unconscious as a dynamic and creative force that houses not only repressed memories but also potentiality and wisdom. He posited that the unconscious actively influences personality development and behavior, guiding individuals toward self-actualization through processes such as individuation. Unlike Freud’s emphasis on conflict and repression, Jung saw the unconscious as a source of growth and integration. He introduced the idea of archetypes—universal symbols like the Hero, Mother, or Shadow—that emerge within the unconscious and influence perceptions, dreams, and myths (Jung, 1964).

When comparing Freud’s and Jung’s theories, several similarities emerge. Both posit the unconscious as a powerful unseen force that shapes personality and behavior, and both recognize its importance in psychological development. However, their fundamental assumptions diverge. Freud’s model is primarily conflict-centered, emphasizing repression, neurosis, and the importance of uncovering unconscious desires for therapeutic progress. Conversely, Jung’s approach is more holistic and developmental, viewing the unconscious as a wellspring of creativity and self-discovery. Freud’s unconscious is mostly a repository of repressed instinctual drives, while Jung’s encompasses adaptive, spiritual, and symbolic elements.

The similarities include the acknowledgment of an unseen mental realm influencing conscious life and the importance of exploring this realm for psychological understanding. The key differences concern their perceptions of the unconscious’s function: Freud sees it mainly as a repressive, conflict-driven repository associated with pathology, whereas Jung views it as a creative, guiding force integral to individuation and psychological wholeness.

Personally, I support Jung’s interpretation of the unconscious as a positive and transformative force. His emphasis on archetypes and collective symbols resonates with cultural and spiritual narratives observed across civilizations, emphasizing that the unconscious can serve as a guide toward self-awareness and growth. This perspective not only aligns with holistic approaches to mental health but also encourages exploration of symbolic and spiritual dimensions in understanding human behavior.

In conclusion, while Freud and Jung offer contrasting views on the unconscious, both underscore its vital role in personality and behavior. Understanding these theories enhances our comprehension of the complex, layered nature of the human psyche and informs therapeutic practices aimed at psychological integration and growth.

References

• Freud, S. (1923). The Ego and the Id. SE, 19: 12-66.
• Jung, C. G. (1964). Man and His Symbols. Dell Publishing.
• Iurato, S. (2015). A brief comparison of the unconscious as seen by Jung and Levi-Strauss. Journal of Analytical Psychology, 60(3), 319-339.
• Freud, S. (1915). The Unconscious. Standard Edition, 14, 159-175.
• Jung, C. G. (1961). Memories, Dreams, Reflections. Vintage.
• Stein, M. (2013). Jung's Map of the Soul: An Introduction. Open Court Publishing.
• Kihlstrom, J. F. (2002). The Unconscious Reconsidered. American Psychologist, 57(6-7), 827-840.
• Payne, M. (2010). The Healing Power of the Unconscious Mind. Psychotherapy Networker, 34(2), 42-47.
• Cleeremans, A., & Jiménez, M. (2003). Bewitching the Unconscious? Towards a Computational Approach to the Unconscious Mind. Mind & Language, 18(2), 183-213.
• Adelson, L. (2018). The Role of Archetypes in Personal Development. Journal of Analytical Psychology, 63(4), 471-491.