Understanding Psychology

Chapter 14: Theories of Personality

Student Web Activites

"Freud Unplugged"

Introduction
Sigmund Freud's theories of personality are so widely read, that the word "psychoanalysis" probably brings to your mind the image of a patient on a couch-talking with a doctor. In the early 20th century, Freud's method of psychoanalysis quickly spread within medicine, social sciences, art, literature, and popular culture. Controversial and criticized in his time, Freud's views of human nature are still intensely debated. Click through the links to learn more.

Web sites
Sigmund Freud: Conflict and Culture
Read through this online exhibit that tries to describe Freud's life and the social climate from which his theories arose. See sections 1-3 on Freud's formative years.

Making the Modern World
Review Freud's concept of personality by browsing through this Web site. Play some of the activities offered that go into his personality tests.

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Activity
Quotes from Freud's writings give you an idea of the man behind the theories. On a separate sheet of paper draw a cartoon illustrating Freud's view of human nature.