Differences Between Psychoanalytic and Behavioral Theoretical Perspectives

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Psychology Essays
Option A: Psychoanalytic and Behavioral Theoretical Perspectives in Psychology
The psychoanalytic and behavioral theoretical perspectives in psychology play a critical role in explaining the different stages of human development and their behavior. However, there are several significant differences between these two theories. Sigmund Freud is one of the most renowned psychologists of the 20th century. His theory of psychoanalytic perspective has a unique way of looking at the relationship between the body and the mind. According to Freud, a person is controlled by ID, Ego, and Superego.
The ID, Ego, and Superego work unconsciously to influence the decisions of individuals. For example, the ID is responsible for the feeling of instant gratification. It is the part of the brain that seeks pleasure and avoids pain at all costs. The superego lies on the other end of the spectrum, and its role is to control the ID. The superego tries to ensure the ID follows the norms of the society and that no damage is caused. On the other hand, the ego lies between the ID and the superego, and it is meant to ensure a person can have pleasure without causing any damages.
Unlike psychoanalytic theory, behavioral theoretical perspectives claim that a person's behavior is formed due to interaction between the person and their environment. The theory thinks that behaviors can be measurable or observed. It does not agree with Freud, who claims that behavior is an emotional and mental issue. The behavioral t...