Explain how the terms "unconscious" and "repression" are used in Freud's theory.
http://www.simplypsychology.org/Sigmund-Freud.html
I'm still not sure how to explain how these terms are used in Freud's theory.
In Freud's theory of psychoanalysis, the terms "unconscious" and "repression" are fundamental concepts that describe the workings of the human mind.
Firstly, let's start with the concept of the unconscious. According to Freud, the mind is divided into three main levels: the conscious, preconscious, and unconscious. The conscious level is what we are actively aware of at any given moment, such as our thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. The preconscious level contains information that is not currently in our awareness but can be easily accessed when needed, such as memories or knowledge. However, it is the unconscious level that is of particular interest in Freud's theory.
The unconscious refers to the part of the mind that operates without our conscious awareness. It contains thoughts, desires, memories, and emotions that are suppressed or inaccessible to us on a conscious level. Freud believed that the unconscious mind influences our behavior and experiences, even though we may not be consciously aware of it. He argued that the unconscious can manifest in various ways, such as dreams, slips of the tongue, and seemingly irrational fears or behaviors.
Now, let's move on to the concept of repression. Repression is a defense mechanism that the mind uses to keep unconscious thoughts, feelings, or memories hidden away. It is an unconscious process that occurs when we encounter thoughts or experiences that are too threatening or anxiety-provoking to face consciously.
When certain thoughts or memories are too distressing, the mind pushes them into the unconscious through repression. By doing so, it acts as a protective mechanism, shielding the individual from emotional pain. Repressed material can include traumatic events, unacceptable sexual or aggressive desires, or unresolved conflicts from childhood.
However, repression does not mean these thoughts or memories simply disappear. Instead, they continue to influence our behavior and experiences, albeit indirectly. They may resurface in symbolic ways, without being consciously recognized. Freud believed that the repressed material could cause psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, neurotic behavior, or even physical ailments.
To uncover or address repressed thoughts or memories, Freud developed psychoanalytic techniques, such as free association and dream analysis. These methods aim to bring the hidden contents of the unconscious into conscious awareness, allowing individuals to gain insight and work through unresolved conflicts or traumas.
In summary, in Freud's theory, the unconscious refers to the part of the mind that operates outside of conscious awareness, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Repression is a defense mechanism that helps keep distressing thoughts or memories in the unconscious, protecting us from emotional pain. By exploring the unconscious through psychoanalytic techniques, Freud believed individuals could gain insight into their repressed material and alleviate psychological symptoms.