Lecture on Psychodynamic Therapy and Its Origins

Introduction to Thermodynamics and Early Influences

1870s: Thermodynamics was a major focus in physics.
Ernst Wilhelm von Bruch's Theory (1874): Proposed living beings, including humans, operate as bodies of energy according to thermodynamics.
Sigmund Freud: Built upon von Bruch's theory, applying it to the human psyche, leading to psychodynamic theory.

Early Psychologists: Freud and Carl Jung were among the early adopters.
Alfred Adler: Notable figure in psychodynamic theory, influenced by personal experiences with illness and rivalry.

Striving for Superiority: Central motivation for humans is to rise above current state and achieve a more perfect life.
- Not about dominating others, but self-improvement.
Inferiority Complex: Striving for an ideal self often leads to feelings of inferiority.
- Inferiorities influence lifestyle choices and personal goals.

Lifestyle: Defined by areas where individuals seek superiority.
Childhood Influence: Family environment and childhood experiences are foundational to mental health.
- Birth Order Theory: Suggests family position influences personality and lifestyle.
- Social Interest: Importance of cooperation and interpersonal relationships.

Empathetic Therapist: Therapist actively engages and shows interest in client's well-being.
- Therapy is face-to-face, unlike traditional psychoanalysis.
Consciousness Raising: Making unconscious desires and relationship patterns visible.
- Example: Identifying reluctance to criticize a partner in therapy.
Contingency Control: Using humor to reframe client’s goals and reduce self-condemnation.
Choosing and "As-If" Technique: Encouraging clients to try new behaviors by acting "as if."

Research: Limited studies, but found to be more effective than no treatment.
- Comparable to psychoanalytic therapy.
- Some evidence suggests newer therapies outperform psychodynamic methods.
Status: Not fully evidence-based like cognitive behavioral therapy.