Requirement For Psyc 502 Research Paper: The Paper 6 Pages W

Requirement For Psyc 502 Research Paper The Paper 6pages Will Compa

The paper (6 pages) will compare Existential Therapy and Psychoanalytic Therapy (Freud) as it relates to philosophy, key concepts and tenets, strategies and techniques, and goals. Additionally, the paper will include a discussion of the appropriateness of each approach for culturally and disability-diverse populations. The paper should have a clear introduction, purpose, and logical discourse. APA style format is required with references (which includes 5 empirical articles).

Paper For Above instruction

The purpose of this research paper is to critically compare and contrast two influential psychotherapeutic approaches: Existential Therapy and Psychoanalytic Therapy, particularly Freudian. It aims to explore their philosophical foundations, core concepts and principles, strategies, techniques, and overarching goals. Additionally, the paper will examine the suitability and effectiveness of these approaches when applied to culturally diverse populations and individuals with disabilities.

Existential Therapy is rooted in philosophical traditions that emphasize individual existence, freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning (Yalom, 1980). It emerged as a distinct therapeutic approach in the mid-20th century, influenced by existential philosophy thinkers like Søren Kierkegaard, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Jean-Paul Sartre, who stressed human subjective experience and the importance of confronting existential anxieties (Spinelli, 2005). In contrast, Psychoanalytic Therapy, particularly Freud’s model, is grounded in a deterministic and biologically informed view of human nature, focusing on unconscious processes, childhood experiences, and innate drives (Freud, 1917/1950).

Philosophically, Existential Therapy emphasizes authenticity, personal responsibility, and the search for meaning within a finite life span. It encourages clients to confront existential themes such as death, freedom, isolation, and meaninglessness, fostering personal growth through awareness and acceptance (Yalom, 1980). Psychoanalytic Therapy, on the other hand, is based on the assumption that unconscious conflicts stemming from childhood shape adult behavior and mental health (Freud, 1900). Its focus is on uncovering repressed thoughts and resolving intrapsychic conflicts through techniques like free association, dream analysis, and transference.

In terms of strategies and techniques, Existential Therapy employs dialogue and phenomenological methods, helping clients explore their subjective experiences and make authentic choices (Bugental, 1984). Techniques involve existential confrontation, exploration of values, and promoting awareness of mortality and freedom. Psychoanalytic Therapy utilizes interpretive techniques aimed at revealing unconscious material, such as analyzing dreams, slips of the tongue, and resistance, to gain insight into unresolved conflicts (Gabbard, 2004). It often involves long-term sessions where the therapist acts as a neutral observer, facilitating insight through transference and countertransference.

The goals of these therapies differ yet overlap in their pursuit of psychological integration and well-being. Existential Therapy seeks to assist clients in finding personal meaning, achieving authentic existence, and confronting existential givens with courage (Yalom, 1980). Psychoanalytic Therapy aims to bring unconscious material into conscious awareness, resolve conflicts, and reduce symptoms rooted in childhood trauma or unresolved unconscious drives (Freud, 1917/1950). Both approaches ultimately aim to improve mental health, but their emphasis on conscious experience versus unconscious processes distinguishes their methods and aims.

Regarding cultural and disability diversity, each approach has distinct strengths and limitations. Existential Therapy’s emphasis on individual meaning-making and personal responsibility can resonate across cultures, especially those valuing individualism and self-determination (Lachman, 2003). However, its focus on confronting death and freedom may need sensitivity when working with clients from collectivist cultures or those with trauma related to violence or displacement. Psychoanalytic Therapy’s focus on uncovering unconscious conflicts rooted in early childhood experiences may be challenged by cultural differences in family dynamics and expressions of distress (Bhugra & Gupta, 2011). Nonetheless, psychoanalytic principles can be adapted by considering cultural context and integrating culturally sensitive interpretations.

Both approaches can be tailored to be culturally competent and accessible for individuals with disabilities. Existential Therapy’s focus on personal choice allows flexibility in accommodating different abilities and life circumstances, fostering empowerment. Psychoanalytic therapy can be adapted by modifying techniques to suit cognitive and sensory needs, utilizing alternative methods such as art therapy or adapted communication strategies (Karnilowicz, 2017). Ultimately, a therapist’s cultural awareness, sensitivity, and adaptability are crucial in applying either approach effectively in diverse populations.

In conclusion, both Existential and Psychoanalytic therapies offer valuable frameworks for understanding and helping individuals cope with psychological distress. Their philosophical differences inform their strategies, goals, and techniques, with each providing unique benefits. When working with diverse populations, considerations of cultural and disability contexts are essential for effective delivery. Integrating cultural competence and flexibility into these approaches enhances their relevance and efficacy in promoting mental health and well-being across varied client backgrounds.

References

• Bhugra, D., & Gupta, S. (2011). Culture and mental health: A review of the literature and implications for practice. World Psychiatry, 10(2), 110-112.
• Gabbard, G. O. (2004). Psychodynamic psychiatry in clinical practice. American Psychiatric Publishing.
• Freud, S. (1950). The interpretation of dreams (J. Strachey, Trans.). Basic Books. (Original work published 1900)
• Karnilowicz, W. (2017). Disability and mental health: Perspectives from psychosocial rehabilitation. Disability & Rehabilitation, 39(24), 2480-2489.
• Lachman, M. E. (2003). Development in midlife and beyond: Qualitative and quantitative perspectives. Annual Review of Psychology, 54, 45-76.
• Spinelli, E. (2005). The existential analysis: An introduction. SAGE Publications.
• Yalom, I. D. (1980). Existential Psychotherapy. Basic Books.