Comparison of Freud, Mahler, and Adler theories
Write a three-page paper comparing Freud, Mahler, and Adler theories. Compare and contrast the developmental models of Freud and Mahler, and then contrast these two developmental theories with Adler’s theory. Be sure to also address the following:
A brief description of each theory. Which perspective appeals to you more, and why?
What are some ways the Adlerian approach can be applied to group counselling? What are some advantages of using a group format with this approach?
What concepts from these psychoanalytic approaches do you see as being potentially useful in your work as a nurse psychotherapist? Describe.
Why should the nurse psychotherapist understand developmental theories for application in clinical practice?
You should cite a minimum of five APA references
—
Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory emphasizes the role of the unconscious mind in shaping behavior and personality. He believed that early childhood experiences, particularly those related to sexuality and aggression, have a powerful impact on an individual’s development.
Margaret Mahler’s developmental model focuses on the separation-individuation process, which describes the way infants and young children gradually learn to differentiate themselves from their primary caregivers. This process, according to Mahler, is crucial for the development of a healthy sense of self and the ability to form healthy relationships.
Alfred Adler’s individual psychology theory emphasizes the role of social interest and the striving for superiority in shaping behavior and personality. He believed that individuals are driven by a desire to compensate for feelings of inferiority, and that this drive leads them to develop a unique lifestyle that reflects their unique perspective on the world.
Personally, I find Adler’s perspective on the importance of social interest and the striving for superiority to be more appealing as it emphasizes the role of the individual’s subjective experience in shaping their behavior and personality.
In group counseling, Adlerian approach can be applied by helping members to understand and appreciate each other’s unique lifestyles and perspectives. This can be done by encouraging members to share their experiences and feelings, and by helping them to understand how their behavior and attitudes are influenced by their individual goals and motivations.
The Adlerian approach can have several advantages when used in a group format. One advantage is that it allows members to learn from and support each other, as well as to gain insight into their own behavior and attitudes. Additionally, a group format allows members to practice new ways of thinking and behaving in a safe and supportive environment.
As a nurse psychotherapist, I see the concepts of social interest, lifestyle and the striving for superiority, as being potentially useful in my work. Understanding these concepts can help me to better understand and appreciate my patients’ unique perspectives and goals, and to provide them with more effective and individualized care.
It is important for nurse psychotherapist to understand developmental theories for application in clinical practice as it allows them to better understand the unique experiences and perspectives of each patient. This understanding can help them to provide more effective and individualized care, and to help patients to develop a greater understanding of themselves and their behavior.
References:
Freud, S. (1923). The Ego and the Id.
Mahler, M., Pine, F., & Bergman, A. (1975). The Psychological Birth of the Human Infant: Symbiosis and Individuation.
Adler, A. (1927). The Practice and Theory of Individual Psychology.
Ansbacher, H. L., & Ansbacher, R. R. (1956). The Individual Psychology of Alfred Adler.
Stein, H., & Sanders, M. (Eds.). (2009). Handbook of Adlerian Counseling.