PY3150: Module 4 Human Nature and Personality Theories
Research 4.1
Psychoanalytic Theory: Sigmund Freud
Use the ITT Tech Virtual Library, the textbook, and the Wiley Media site resources to examine Freud’s
psychoanalytic theory and address the following:
What is the basic nature of personality, according to Freud? Briefly describe his theory of
personality structures, developmental stages, and defense mechanisms.
Provide an instance of when you or someone you know used a defense mechanism.
Identify a few major criticisms of Freud’s theories. The ITT Tech Virtual Library is a good source for
articles analyzing Freud’s theory.
Why do you think Freud’s theories are still so popular with the public, despite the many problems
psychologists have with his ideas?
Cite all sources used in the APA format, including at least three in-text citation from each source and
a References page.
Submission Requirements:
Submit your work in a Microsoft Word document of the following specifications:
Font: Arial, Size: 12 point
Line Spacing: Double
Length: 450 words
Citation Style: APA. Refer to the sample APA title page given in the handout titled “APA Title Page
Format.”
Evaluation Criteria:
Your submission will be evaluated against the following criteria using the research rubric:
Did you describe Freud’s theory of personality structures, developmental stages, and defense
mechanisms?
Did you provide a real-life instance of using a defense mechanism?
Did you identify criticisms of Freud’s theory and explain its continued popularity?
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