What psychological theory focuses on unconscious motivations and conflicts?

Psychoanalysis is a psychological theory that emphasizes the importance of unconscious motivations and conflicts in shaping human behavior and personality. Developed by Sigmund Freud, this theory posits that much of our mental life is governed by unconscious processes that influence our emotions, thoughts, and actions. Freud suggested that unresolved conflicts, often rooted in early childhood experiences, could lead to psychological distress and manifested in various ways, such as anxiety or depression.

Central to psychoanalysis is the exploration of these unconscious elements through techniques like free association, dream analysis, and transference. By bringing unconscious conflicts to consciousness, individuals can gain insight and make sense of their behaviors and feelings, which can be therapeutic.

In contrast, cognitive-behavioral theory focuses on the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, emphasizing the role of conscious thought processes rather than unconscious motivations. Humanistic theory prioritizes personal growth and self-actualization while taking into account conscious experiences, and behavioral theory emphasizes the observable aspects of behavior, often disregarding internal mental states. Each of these alternative theories offers valuable perspectives but does not specifically focus on the unconscious motivations central to psychoanalysis.