Question

1. summarize the assumptions of Freud's psychoanalytical theory in three sentences. Explain whether it is appropriate to apply psychoanalytic theory to women and individuals from racial and ethnic minority groups

Answer 1

Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytical theory assumes that the major causes for mental illness lies in the unconscious mind. He believed that childhood experiences are a major cause of mental illness. He also emphasized on the fact that people indulge in defense mechanisms to cope up with basic anxiety which later reflects in the unconscious mind which cannot be brought to surface by the conscious mind.

Freud's theory has been criticized for applying his psychoanalytic theory to women and individuals from racial and ethnic minority groups. Critics believed that there is indeed a need for developing the psychoanalytical theory and methods appropriate to the culture and life-style of the various ethnic groups. Thus, this evidence makes it clear that it is not appropriate to apply psychoanalytic theory to women and individuals from racial and ethnic minority groups.