Reflection Paper #9

Reflection paper #9: Why is Freud’s work on the Theory of Personality considered so important even by those who don’t agree with him? What do you think about Freud?

Sigmund Freud is considered to be the father of psychology by his supporters and his adversaries. Many may choose to disagree with his theories but none would deny that it raised interest, controversy, discussions, research and more theories. Many of Freud’s theories are perceived to be appalling in today’s society but especially so for his generation. Freud’s theories, in my opinion, is very important because it provided the foundation and opened doors for other theorists such as Adler and Jung. Adler was one of Freud’s biggest supporters. He joined Freud’s Analytical society group in 1902 and even became the first president. Unfortunately, as in many relationships there were disagreements and difference of opinions in theories. Adler cited Freud as being arrogant and obstinate person that is not willing to consider any other viewpoints in theories that are challenging to his own. Based on this premise, Adler, with many others, disassociated themselves from Freud. In fact, Adler went on to form his own group called Individual Psychology in 1911.I dare say that Adler’s success with his psychoanalysis theories is a direct result of his association with Sigmund Freud.
Personality is documented as having the most theories and research in the history of psychology. Sigmund Freud’s theory of personality described three parts that made up the human psyche – id, ego and superego. The first part of his theory, the id is described as being one’s unconscious thoughts and behavior – no connection with reality. The second part of this theory is called the ego which is the one that faces reality in order to function in society. The third part is the superego that is our conscience and measures our good and bad thoughts and behaviors. The id and the ego do not have any morals, therefore depending on the superego for direction. The id is very primal like an instinct and constantly conflict with the ego that tries desperately to stay in balance. When the id and the ego collide, it produces a repertoire of defense mechanisms that are brought to the forefront in order to combat a loss of reality.
Freud strongly upheld that childhood experiences greatly impacted adult personality. I also believe this to be true. I also agree with his views of the id, ego and superego. Although Freud was quite eccentric, he opened minds to ponder many critical and shocking behavior, feelings and emotions that can gravely affect a person’s reality. Sigmund Freud was a trailblazer and he revolutionized the field of psychology which many of his theories still are valued and respected today.