Question 1: Describe the three parts of Freud's personality structure: the id, ego, and superego. Include their main functions and how they interact.

Answer: The id is the unconscious part of personality that operates on the pleasure principle, seeking immediate gratification. The ego is the conscious part that mediates between the id and reality, using reason and logic. The superego represents internalised moral standards and ideals, acting as a moral compass. The ego balances the demands of the id, superego, and reality.

Question 2: Explain what is meant by the term 'unconscious mind' in the psychodynamic approach and give an example of how it might influence behaviour.

Answer: The unconscious mind contains thoughts, feelings, and desires that are not within our conscious awareness but influence our behaviour. For example, an individual might unconsciously sabotage a job interview due to hidden feelings of inadequacy.

Question 3: Identify and describe two defence mechanisms used by the ego to reduce anxiety.

Answer: Repression involves pushing distressing thoughts into the unconscious to avoid conscious awareness. Displacement involves transferring feelings from the original source to a safer or more acceptable target, such as yelling at a family member after a stressful day at work.

Question 4: Describe a scenario where a person might use the defence mechanism of denial.

Answer: A person who is diagnosed with a serious illness refuses to accept the diagnosis and insists they are fine, ignoring medical advice and symptoms.

Question 5: Explain the concept of 'psychic conflict' in the psychodynamic approach and how it can lead to psychological distress.

Answer: Psychic conflict occurs when the demands of the id, ego, and superego clash, causing internal tension. For example, the desire for pleasure (id) conflicts with moral standards (superego), leading to anxiety or stress.

Question 6: Theorists suggest that childhood experiences influence adult personality. Briefly explain this idea with reference to the psychodynamic approach.

Answer: Freud believed that early childhood experiences shape the development of the personality and unconscious conflicts. Unresolved issues from childhood can manifest as psychological problems in adulthood.

Question 7: Draw a simple diagram illustrating Freud's model of the psyche (personality structure) with the id, ego, and superego. Label each part clearly.

Answer: [DRAWING TASK] A large circle divided into three sections: one labeled 'Id' at the bottom, representing unconscious instinctual drives; one labeled 'Ego' in the middle, balancing the other two; and one labeled 'Superego' at the top, representing moral standards. Arrows indicate interaction and conflict between them.]

Question 8: Identify one strength and one limitation of the psychodynamic approach in explaining behaviour.

Answer: Strength: It emphasizes the importance of childhood experiences and unconscious factors in shaping behaviour. Limitation: It is difficult to scientifically test and validate its concepts due to reliance on subjective interpretations.

Question 9: Discuss how the psychodynamic approach might explain a person’s phobia of spiders.

Answer: The approach might suggest that the phobia is a result of unconscious conflicts or repressed fears, possibly symbolising deeper issues. The fear could also be a defence mechanism against anxiety or guilt related to childhood experiences.