Which therapy emphasizes unconscious processes and past conflicts?

• A. Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• B. Humanistic therapy
• C. Psychodynamic therapy
• D. Behavioral therapy

Answer: (C)

Focusing on unconscious processes and past conflicts is a hallmark of psychodynamic therapy. This approach, rooted in Freudian ideas, seeks to uncover how unresolved childhood experiences and internal conflicts shape current feelings and behaviors by bringing unconscious material into awareness. Techniques like exploring early relationships, defense mechanisms, and sometimes dream analysis or transference aim to provide insight and resolve these internal tensions. In contrast, cognitive-behavioral therapy targets present thoughts and behaviors with structured skills to modify them, behavioral therapy emphasizes learning and observable actions, and humanistic therapy centers on growth and self-actualization in the here and now. So, psychodynamic therapy best fits the description.