Psychodynamics is a broad term that includes the traditional psychoanalysis developed by Freud and its contemporary reformed versions. Famous schools of thoughts related to psychodynamics include: ego psychology, Sullivan’s interpersonal psychoanalysis, object relations, Kleinian theory, Kohut’s self psychology, Jung’s analytical psychology, contemporary revisions like the Lacanian psychoanalysis, and Bowlby’s attachment theory.
The word “dynamics” comes from the metaphor that psychic energy (e.g., libido, aggression) flows within a person’s mind just as heat and force drive the movements of physical objects. Through gaining insights into the unconscious motivating energy in a person’s mind, one can properly direct these energies. Thus, one achieves a healthier ego function.
While different theorists differ within this field, psychodynamic theory generally believes that:
- The human psyche contains two main parts: the conscious and the unconscious. The unconscious contains the instinctual forces that drive people’s conscious cognition and behaviour.
- Childhood events play major roles in forming a person’s psyche. Thus, therapy focuses on exploring the past.
- Conflicts of the conscious and unconscious cause psychopathology. Healing lies in recognizing and resolving these conflicts.
- Clients project inner conflicts onto the therapist (transference).
- The ego uses defence mechanisms to guard the unconscious materials.
- Analysis of dreams and free association can bypass defences and tap into the unconscious realm.
Freud’s ideas were progressive and insightful compared to his contemporary theorists. However, most of Freud’s theories have been criticized and revised. For example, his bias against females and over-emphasis on sexuality show his own issues with his mother and women.
Recent evidence-based research has shown that psychodynamic therapy is as effective as other therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy. However, psychodynamic therapy usually lasts a long time (sometimes years) with weekly sessions, which can be expensive and time-consuming.