SYNTHESIS PAPER NEO-FREUDIANISM 10
SYNTHESIS PAPER NEO-FREUDIANISM 10
Synthesis Paper – Neo-Freudianism
Introduction
The ramifications of mid-life theories are used to debunk myths and common assertions that typically denote a time of crisis and emotional instability, doubt, stress, loss and anxiety.
Weaver’s study employs a wealth of theories, ranging from Jungian, Freudian, Neo-Freudian, Existentialism, and others, to conclude how mid-life can represent new growth opportunities and new possibilities. Weaver dissects these beliefs by psychodynamic theorists who have argued that middle life is merely a product of childhood, and subsequently proposes that it could be indeed a stage in the individuals’ lifespan development, as linked to theories from Erikson and Peck. (Weaver, 2009).
Re-examining Mid-Life amid a Positive Perspective
In sum, the study is unique because it allows researchers to re-examine the mid-life conceptual framework amid a positive perspective, using notions offered by Erikson, Peck, Cohen, as well as a host of others. The study also embodies cultural implications since Weaver argues how many theories about meanings in life and midlife crises are culturally specific, not universal, and often merely rooted in Christian and Western ideologies. (Weaver, 2009). Likewise, Eagle’s article also offers a comprehensive synopsis of psychoanalysis critics, as well as an analysis of available criticisms, both inside and outside or within the psychoanalytic framework. Eagle strongly emphasizes that there are differences and diversity in psychoanalytic theory, in addition practices that are based not only on practical or experimental evidence effectively derive in information using a greater therapeutic mechanism but in widely physical developments and transformations in cultural, philosophical, and social–economic conditions. Eagle dismantles the notion that there is a widening scope for psychoanalytic treatments and even a wider potential “pool of patients.” (Eagle, 2007).
Furthermore, Weaver also contemplates the role of the analyst, as well as the role that
transference and self-disclosure plays in the discipline regarding the shifting of interpretations about therapeutic mechanisms with regards to overall psychoanalysis. In addition, there were other changes, such as the increasing emphasis on the therapeutic relationship and the reconceptualization of countertransference that were also discussed. (Weaver, 2009). Overskeid urges researchers to examine the similarities between Freud and Skinner, because differences between the two are more frequently covered. Overskeid also claims that Skinner was influenced by Freud and he traces connections between Psychoanalysis and Behaviorism in his article. The article uses historical and psychological findings and references to substantiate its claims. The commonality of both Freud and Skinner as positivists is also articulated as well as their zest for empirically driven research. (Overskeid, 2007).
