Sigmund Freud’s system of psychoanalysis was the first theory of personality and acts as a system of therapy to treat mental disorders, and the framework that was established by Freud’s psychoanalysis is still used in the study personality and human nature today (Schultz & Schultz, 2013, p. 41). Freud’s original theories have been expanded upon and can be used by therapists to help patients with various issues in the modern day. Therapists using the psychoanalytical approach have to focus on the understanding the unconscious mind and focusing on maintaining a proper “psychoanalyst-patient” relationship in order to produce positive results (“Psychoanalytic Theory & Approaches,” n.d.). In the case of Bernadette, the main focus of a therapist following the psychoanalytical approach should be to analyze Bernadette’s case study for potential trouble areas, help Bernadette address her defense mechanisms, and ethically apply concepts to help Bernadette with her issues.
Situation Analysis First of all, Bernadette is a married woman who has recently been having a hard time both at work and at home. The issues at work include not receiving a needed raise, feeling antagonized by her boss, working for over 50 hours a week, and being labeled a …show more content…
The most obvious defense mechanisms that Bernadette is using is sublimation. Sublimation is the defense mechanisms that changes impulses, such as sexual energy, into more socially acceptable behaviors or outlets such as work or a hobby that leads to built-up tensions (Schultz & Schultz, 2013, p. 54). Sublimation adequately explains why Bernadette is overworking herself at her job as a way to channel her unconscious desire for intimacy into a productive outlet, but the tension of her actual desires and overexerting herself at work is taking a large mental and physical
Situation Analysis First of all, Bernadette is a married woman who has recently been having a hard time both at work and at home. The issues at work include not receiving a needed raise, feeling antagonized by her boss, working for over 50 hours a week, and being labeled a …show more content…
The most obvious defense mechanisms that Bernadette is using is sublimation. Sublimation is the defense mechanisms that changes impulses, such as sexual energy, into more socially acceptable behaviors or outlets such as work or a hobby that leads to built-up tensions (Schultz & Schultz, 2013, p. 54). Sublimation adequately explains why Bernadette is overworking herself at her job as a way to channel her unconscious desire for intimacy into a productive outlet, but the tension of her actual desires and overexerting herself at work is taking a large mental and physical