Question

Randall has been highly disruptive in university. His poor grades and anti-social behavior have eventually led him to be expelled. His therapist explains to his parents that Randall is unconsciously acting out because he did not want to attend university. The therapist is taking a _______________ approach to understanding personality.

Answer 1

Answer:

psychoanalytic

Explanation:

The term acting out is a term that was first introduced by Sigmund Freud, father of psychoanalysis.

According to Freud, acting out refers to the release of out-of-control aggressive or sexual impulses in order to gain relief from tension or anxiety, these impulses often result in antisocial or delinquent behaviors. Acting out is usually used as a defense mechanism to deal with emotional unconscious conflicts.

In this example, the therapist explains to Randall's parents that he is unconsciously acting out because he doesn't want to attend university. The therapist is using a term that belongs to the psychoanalytic approach, she also uses the term "unconsciously" which also is a main term used in this approach. Therefore, the therapist is taking a psychoanalytic approach to understanding personality.