Freud, Mahler, Adler and Erikson
Introduction
Sigmund Freud, Margaret Mahler, Alfred Adler, and Erik Erikson have all had a tremendous influence on the field and discipline of psychology and therapeutic practices. This paper compares and contrasts the developmental models of Freud and Erikson, followed by an analysis of Adler and Mahlers theories. It also explores the commonalities among these theories, their practical implications in group counseling, and their relevance in the practice of nurse psychotherapy.
Comparison of Freud and Eriksons Developmental Models
Sigmund Freuds psychosexual theory and Erik Eriksons psychosocial theory are two important models in the understanding of human development. Freuds model is grounded in the idea that development is driven by instinctual biological forces and occurs in five stages (oral, anal, phallic, latency, and genital) (Olver, 2020). Each stage is characterized by the erogenous zones that are the focus of a childs psychosexual energy.
In contrast, Eriksons psychosocial theory encompasses eight stages, emphasizing the social and environmental factors that contribute to personality development (de Carvalho & Veiga, 2022). Each stage presents a crisis or conflict crucial to an individuals development. For example, the first stage (trust vs. mistrust) focuses on the infants basic needs being met by the parents.
Comparison of Adler and Mahlers Developmental Theories
Alfred Adlers individual psychology and Margaret Mahlers separation-individuation theory both address the formation of personal identity and the development of the self. Adlers theory focuses on the concept of striving for superiority and the importance of societal factors in shaping personality. He introduced the idea of the inferiority complex and stressed the role of sibling rivalry and family dynamics (Pratama & Lena, 2023).
Mahler, on the other hand, emphasized the psychological birth of the individual through the process of separation and individuation, starting in infancy. Her theory delineates phases such as differentiation, practicing, rapprochement,...
They all recognize the complex interplay between internal drives and external social influences in shaping personality and
behavior.
Emphasis on Developmental Stages
All four theorists structured their understanding of human growth and psychological development in terms of distinct stages. For Freud, these were the psychosexual...
…and thus encourage a more holistic approach to
patient care. This perspective considers the individual symptoms and the
social context, family dynamics, and
lifestyle of the patient. These developmental theories aid nurse psychotherapists in approaching patients with greater empathy.
Importance of Developmental Theories in Clinical Practice
For a nurse psychotherapist, understanding developmental theories is important as it provides a framework for assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients. For example, interventions for a patient with issues rooted in early childhood (such as trust or autonomy) would differ significantly from those addressing challenges related to later developmental stages like identity or intimacy. Ultimately, knowledge of developmental theories can enhance the therapeutic relationship. Patients often feel more understood and supported when their developmental history and its impact on their current state are acknowledged and addressed in therapy.
Conclusion
Freud, Mahler, Adler, and Eriksons theories provide diverse and rich perspectives on human developent. While Freud and Erikson focus more on the psychosexual and psychosocial aspects, respectively, Adler and Mahler offer insights into societal influences and the separation-individuation process. Their commonalities lie in the stage-wise approach to development and the emphasis on early experiences. Understanding these theories helps in clinical practice, especially in the…
