Intrapsychic Conflict: Definition, History, and Further Reading
Introduction
Intrapsychic conflict is a psychological phenomenon, which occurs when conflicting desires within an individual’s psyche are unresolved. This internal struggle can lead to a variety of psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and even physical symptoms. In this article, we will discuss the definition, history, and recommended further reading of intrapsychic conflict.
Definition
Intrapsychic conflict is a psychological phenomenon, which occurs when conflicting desires within an individual’s psyche are unresolved. These conflicts can be between two parts of an individual’s psyche, between different aspects of an individual’s identity, or between an individual’s internal desires and external reality. These conflicts can involve a variety of topics, such as morality, values, or beliefs. Intrapsychic conflict can also be caused by repressed memories and emotions, or by unresolved issues from past experiences.
History
The concept of intrapsychic conflict has its roots in psychoanalytic theory. Sigmund Freud first developed the concept of psychoanalytic theory, in which internal conflicts between the conscious and unconscious mind are thought to be the cause of psychological disturbances. Freud posited that these conflicts were the result of repression of emotions, desires, and memories from early childhood experiences.
The concept of intrapsychic conflict has since been developed by many theorists, such as Carl Jung, Alfred Adler, and Karen Horney. Each of these theorists modified Freud’s psychoanalytic theories, and developed their own theories of intrapsychic conflict. Jung proposed the concept of collective unconscious, which posited that conflicts between the individual’s conscious and unconscious mind were often the result of unconscious desires which were shared by all humans. Adler proposed the concept of inferiority complex, which posits that conflicts between the individual’s conscious and unconscious mind were often caused by unresolved feelings of inferiority or lack of self-confidence. Horney proposed the concept of neurotic needs, which posited that conflicts between the individual’s conscious and unconscious mind were often caused by unmet emotional needs.
Further Reading
The following are suggested readings for further information on intrapsychic conflict:
Kantrowitz, J. L., & Silbersweig, D. A. (2010). Intrapsychic conflict in the psychotherapy of depression. Harvard Review of Psychiatry, 18(3), 174-185.
Kirschenbaum, H. (2008). Intrapsychic conflict: Its role in mental and physical health. Psychology Press.
McLeod, S. A. (2019). Intrapsychic conflict. Simply Psychology. Retrieved from https://www.simplypsychology.org/intrapsychic-conflict.html
Saunders, L., & Arnold, M. (2015). Intrapsychic conflict, anxiety, and depression: An integrative perspective. American Journal of Psychotherapy, 69(4), 314-334.
Shedler, J. (2010). The efficacy of psychodynamic psychotherapy. The American Psychologist, 65(2), 98-109.
Wachtel, P. L. (2008). Psychoanalysis, behavior therapy, and the relational world. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.