Analytical Psychology
Carl Gustav Jung’s System of Psychology
Introduction
Carl Gustav Jung (1875-1961), a Swiss physician, was initially Freud’s “crown prince.” However, he split from Freud due to ideological differences, primarily Freud’s overemphasis on sex. Jung established Analytical Psychology to explore his unique ideas.
Structure of the Psyche (Mind)
Jung divided the mind into three distinct layers:
How Jung’s Unconscious Differs from Freud’s
- Not just a dumping ground: Unlike Freud, Jung did not see the unconscious merely as a place for suppressed desires.
- The Source of Consciousness: Jung argued that the conscious mind evolved out of the unconscious, rather than the unconscious being a byproduct of the conscious.
- Collective Nature: It includes a racial/universal dimension, not just a personal one.
- Evolutionary Growth: Jung viewed the psyche as millions of years old, describing individual consciousness as the “flowers and fruit” of a perennial underground “rhizome” (root system).
The Archetypes
Archetypes are the roots of the collective unconscious—inherited ideas common to every culture.
Animus: Male traits in females.
Libido & Personality Types
Jung redefined Libido as “Life Energy” (not just sex). It flows in two directions:
The 8 Personality Types
| Function | Introverted Type | Extroverted Type |
|---|---|---|
| Thinking | Theoretical, detached, aloof, cold. | Realistic, practical, supports theory with facts. |
| Intuitive | Subjective, concerned with probabilities, moody. | Optimistic, change-seeker, risk-taker. |
| Sensational | Refined tastes, choosy, fussy, often dissatisfied. | Carefree, friendly, talkative, bored easily. |
| Feeling | Daydreamer, strong internal likes/dislikes, silent. | Social, helpful, objective, expresses feelings externally. |
Dreams and Neurosis
Dreams
- Present-oriented: Unlike Freud (past-oriented), Jung saw dreams as forward-looking.
- Compensatory: They complete what was left unfinished in waking life.
- Prospective: They predict future events or anticipate achievements.
Neurosis
A result of disharmony between conscious and unconscious minds or a blockage in the flow of libido. Jung saw it as an attempt by the psyche to “lift itself” and achieve higher goals.
Psychotherapy: Controlled Association
Jung used Controlled Association (using Word Association Tests) rather than Freud’s Free Association.
- Analysis: Analyst uses a list of meaningful words to find the root of problems.
- Insight: Patient learns about their personal and racial unconscious.
- Synthesis: The final goal is the Integration of Self and reconciliation between conscious and unconscious forces.
Contribution to Education
- Self-Actualization: The ultimate goal of life and education.
- Individualization: Teachers should identify if a child is an Introvert or Extrovert and balance their growth.
- Creativity: Formal and informal education should provide outlets for the innate creative spark.
- Moral Education: Religion and morality are deep-seated in the collective unconscious and are vital for personality integration.
- Cultural Harmony: Education should keep a person connected to their racial and cultural roots.
Jung’s Psychology: Exam Practice (CTET/KVS/NET)
Explanation: Unlike Freud, Jung believed in a universal layer of the psyche containing ancestral experiences called archetypes.
Explanation: The Persona is the “mask” or role we adopt to meet social expectations or hide our true nature.
Explanation: Introverted Thinking types are theoretical, detached, and preoccupied with inner intellectual pursuits.
Explanation: Jung broadened libido to mean the total “Life Energy” responsible for creativity, science, and survival.
Explanation: Like Freud’s Id, the Shadow represents amoral or primitive impulses, though Jung also saw its creative potential.
Explanation: Anima refers to the female characteristics present within the male psyche.
Explanation: Jung used Word Association Tests to guide the patient and find the root causes of behavioral issues.
Explanation: Jung advocated that the “Self” acts as an integrating force, moving the individual toward self-actualization.
Explanation: Extroverted Intuitive types are optimistic change-seekers who are attracted to future possibilities and risks.
Explanation: Prospective function means dreams help the unconscious anticipate future goals and solve current waking problems.
