Contrast Psychodynamic, Research Paper Example

Psychodynamics is best described as the study of mental processes i.e. conscious and sub-conscious states of the mind. In psychology  it is the theory of the psychological forces that underlie human behavior. The science stems from the early work of Ernst Von Briche and Sigmund Freud. It was Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow that felt psychodynamic theories did not adequately address psychological aspects of behavior and the nature of healthy growth. The “proposed a functionally new approach”  (Rowan, 1998).  ” The goals of psychodynamic therapy are a client’s self-awareness and understanding of the influence of the past on present behavior”  (Jim Haggerty, 2010).

Psychodynamic psychotherapy uses techniques that are very similar to psychanalysis. Treatment is interactive between the patient and the psychotherapist. This initially involves talking about unconscious motivation and the interpretation of the dream state. Treatment normally ranges from 1-12 sessions but in more severe cases it may last several years.

Treatment strategies will be determined in accordance with how receptive the patient is to treatment. The psycho dynamic therapy focuses on aspects of the individuals personality and the ability to deal with past and present relationships. The treatment is particularly effective in dealing with personality disorders ” An effective treatment follows directly from the diagnostic understanding of what is going on within the patient’s internal world. Patients with personality disorders tend to draw the psychotherapist into a “dance.” Through the process of projective identification, they unconsciously transform the therapist into a transference object”  (Glen O. Gabbard, 2005).  ” Washington—Psychodynamic psychotherapy is effective for a wide range of mental health symptoms, including depression, anxiety, panic and stress-related physical ailments, and the benefits of the therapy grow after treatment has ended, according to new research published by the American Psychological Association.”  (Jonathan K. Shedler, 2010)

Works Cited

Glen O. Gabbard, M. (2005). Psychodynamic Approaches to Personality Disorders . American Psychiatric Association , 363-367.

Jim Haggerty, M. (2010, 5 4). Psychodynamic Therapy. Retrieved 5 4, 2010, from Psychotherapy: http://psychcentral.com/lib/2006/psychodynamic-therapy/

Jonathan K. Shedler, P. (2010, 1 5). Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Brings Lasting Benefits through Self-Knowledge. Retrieved 5 4, 2010, from American Psychological Association: http://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2010/01/psychodynamic-therapy.aspx

Rowan, J. (1998). The Humanistic Approach . Approaches to Psychology .