11 - Problems with topographic theory

Problems with topographic theory:

© SPMM Course 2. Dynamic models of the mind:

Topographical theory This was elaborated in The Interpretation of Dreams in 1900. Here, the mind is divided into three regions: the conscious system, the preconscious system, and the unconscious system. The functions of these regions are based on one of the two principles. The Pleasure Principle is the innate tendency to avoid pain and seek pleasure. The reality principle is a learned function, which requires delay or postponement of wish fulfillment according to environmental reality. The conscious system  Receives and process information from the outside world.  Its contents are communicated via speech and behaviour.  Attention cathexis refers to the investment of psychic energy on a particular idea or feeling to process it consciously.  Operates secondary process thinking mainly. The unconscious system:  Contains the contents of censored or repressed wishes, etc.  Characterized by primary-process thinking,  Governed by the pleasure principle.  Shift of cathexis happens very often and quickly  Evident via parapraxes (Freudian slips) and dreams. The preconscious system:  As and when needed service  Interfaces with both unconscious and conscious - contents of unconscious become conscious by ‘squeezing’ through the preconscious  Maintains the ‘repressive barrier’ to censor unacceptable wishes and desires (not the repressed contents). Problems with topographic theory: When someone employs defense mechanisms such as displacement, repression etc., he or she are not aware of the process of this defense. Hence, these cannot be represented by preconscious as Freud thought – as preconscious is available to conscious as and when needed. An unconscious need for punishment was frequently noted among Freud’s patients – topographical theory fails to explain this.