AAMC FL Practice Exam

Which theory explains personality by emphasizing unconscious determinants of behavior?

1. Humanistic theory

2. Psychoanalytic theory

3. Behaviorist theory

4. Social learning theory

The correct answer is: Psychoanalytic theory

Psychoanalytic theory is the framework that emphasizes the role of unconscious processes in shaping human behavior and personality. Developed by Sigmund Freud, this theory posits that much of human behavior is influenced by unconscious motives, desires, and conflicts that stem from childhood experiences. Freud believed that these unconscious elements manifest in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that individuals may not be fully aware of, affecting their overall personality. The concept of the unconscious is central to psychoanalytic theory, as it suggests that individuals have innate drives, typically sexual and aggressive, that they may struggle to control or fully comprehend. As a result, various defense mechanisms may arise to cope with these unconscious influences, ultimately impacting behavior in ways that are nuanced and complex. In contrast, humanistic theory focuses on conscious experiences and personal growth, emphasizing the individual's potential and self-actualization. Behaviorist theory, on the other hand, centers around observable behavior and the conditioning processes that shape it, while social learning theory highlights the role of observation and imitation in learning behaviors. None of these alternatives address the unconscious factors as directly as psychoanalytic theory does.