There have been four major “forces” in the field of clinical psychology. Which of the following lists these forces in the correct historical order (from earliest to most recent)
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct historical order of the four major forces in clinical psychology is:
- Psychoanalysis (First Force)
- Behaviorism (Second Force)
- Humanistic Psychology (Third Force)
- Cognitive-behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Integrative Approaches (Fourth Force)
Explanation:
- Psychoanalysis (First Force): Developed by Sigmund Freud in the early 20th century, psychoanalysis was the first major movement in clinical psychology. It focused on understanding the unconscious mind, including how early childhood experiences and repressed emotions shape behavior. Freud’s theories emphasized the role of the unconscious and defense mechanisms in mental disorders.
- Behaviorism (Second Force): In the 1910s and 1920s, behaviorism became the dominant approach. Founded by figures like John B. Watson and later B.F. Skinner, behaviorism argued that psychology should focus only on observable behavior. Mental processes were considered unscientific and outside the scope of research. Behavior therapy, based on classical and operant conditioning, was a major contribution of this movement.
- Humanistic Psychology (Third Force): Emerging in the 1940s and 1950s, humanistic psychology arose in response to the deterministic outlook of psychoanalysis and behaviorism. Pioneered by Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, this movement focused on personal growth, self-actualization, and the inherent goodness of people. It emphasized the importance of free will, self-determination, and therapeutic relationships, advocating for a more holistic and positive approach to mental health.
- Cognitive-behavioral Therapy and Integrative Approaches (Fourth Force): Starting in the 1960s and 1970s, the fourth force integrated cognitive processes with behavioral techniques. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) became widely adopted, combining strategies from behaviorism with cognitive theories of mental processes. The goal was to change both maladaptive behaviors and distorted thinking patterns. Later, integrative approaches combined techniques from different therapeutic modalities to provide more comprehensive care for patients.
These four forces represent the evolution of clinical psychology, from a focus on the unconscious mind to behavioral patterns, human potential, and a more integrative approach to therapy.