Freudian Psychoanalysis

The Freudian Psychoanalysis theory is a term coined from renown, Austrian neurologist; Sigmund Freud. Freud outlines that the evolution of our civilisation, is the culprit as to our continuous repression of our basic human instincts.

Within this theory, Sigmund Freud uses utilises the analogy of a iceberg to describe the three factions of the mind. Freud compares the surface of an iceberg to the conscious aspect of the mind. Freud describes that the conscious mind entails the the thoughts that are currently the focus of our attention are seen as being the tip of the iceberg; a small section of a much bigger picture. The pre-conscious consists of thoughts that are not actively in use, however can be retrieved from the memory.

Freud draws further comparison by comparing the unconscious mind to the bummock of an iceberg (The submerged mass of an iceberg). Freud outlined that the unconscious mind is the most significant; within this faction resides the process responsible for most of our behaviour. Similarly to the hummock of the iceberg, the most imperative section to the structure is hidden away. According to Freud, the unconscious works as a repository for primitive wishes and animalistic impulses that are kept at bay.

Freud later developed the structure model for this theory, adopting three new terms for the structure of the psyche; the Id, the ego, and the super-ego. Freud assumed that the 'Id' operates at a unconscious level, and comprises of two biological instincts; Eros & Thanatos.

Eros is believed to be a life instinct; responsible for ensuring survival through life-sustaining activities (e.g. breathing). Thanatos on the other hand, is described as being a death instinct; responsible for destructive forces that when exerted outwards towards others, can be expressed in violence and aggression. Freud believed that our ability as the human race, to survive rather than self destruct is a reason as to why Eros is more powerful than Thanatos.

The 'ego' is said to develop from the Id during infancy, and operates at a conscious and unconscious level. The ego's role is to satisfy the primitive demands of the Id, however in a socially-acceptable manner.

The 'super-ego' develops during early stages of childhood, when the child is able to identify to a same sex role model. It is responsible for moral standards are adhered to. The super-ego works as a moral compass and is utilised to motivate us to handle situations in a socially-acceptable way.

The basic conundrum that is generated, is that each of these three elements are not compatible with the other two. This ensures that inner conflict will occur. An example of this is the superego may make someone feel guilty for stealing water to quench dehydration, however the Id will drive them to do so. The conflicting goals of these two sections of the psyche structure are refereed and mediated by the ego.