Good parenting and psychodynamic theory
Psychodynamic theory, founded by Sigmund Freud, explains human personality as an assimilation of human behavior, feelings, and emotions. Each of these is guided by psychological forces that stem from a complex relationship between the unconscious and the conscious mind. Childhood experiences are responsible for how this relationship develops; therefore, an understanding of psychodynamic theory can help parents to raise their children in a better way.
According to psychodynamic theory, the unconscious mind is made up of two opposing psychological forces: “id” and “super ego”. The conscious mind is driven by the psychological force called “ego”.
The id refers to the part of the unconscious mind that is characterized by instinct and irrationalism. It is based on the “pleasure principle” and is the only psychological force that is functional from birth. The id is responsible for the needs and desires of each individual. For example, feelings of hunger, sexual desire, and aggression are all products of id functioning. Psychologists believe that the minds of criminals, delinquents, and psychopaths are controlled by the id, causing them to try to achieve their goals (desires and desires) by any means. The id will ensure that the individual gets what he wants regardless of whether his actions are rational and ethical.
The superego is the force that develops as a result of the values and morals that one picks up or is taught as one’s mind gains consciousness. The unconscious mind learns concepts of right and wrong, good and bad, as well as feelings like shame and pride. All of these make up what is commonly known as one’s “conscience.” The superego is what makes people feel guilty after committing a crime or sin. Psychologists believe that people who tend to be too pious or who are too strict and hard on themselves have overwhelming superegos. If the superego is allowed to reign supreme, anxiety problems are likely to develop. The stress inflicted on the mind by the superego can result in depression and other mental disorders and those who commit suicide as a result of being too self-reproachful are believed to have dominant superegos.
The “ego” is the force that tries to reason with the id and the superego. The conscious mind works on the basis of the ego. A well developed ego creates a healthy balance in the elements of the unconscious mind trying to please both the id and the super ego. It will try to achieve what the id wants by incorporating the beliefs that the superego presents. By doing so, you avoid feelings of guilt while ensuring that the id is satisfied. Thus, the individual does not experience stress from deprivation or sin.
Since the relationship between the id, ego, and superego develops primarily in early childhood, psychologists encourage parents and secondary caregivers to focus on “ego” development. At every stage of life development, it is essential to help children understand that desires are natural; they are not wrong because they are part of your being created by the Higher Powers. However, desires need to be tamed. Parents often try to reinforce concepts of morality and ethics beyond what is necessary. Alternatively, some parents never say “no” to their children and this encourages the id to reign supreme. Healthy parenting is one in which a delicate balance is maintained between correcting/controlling her child and allowing the child to follow her heart.