For therapists in a clinical setting, there is need to understand the biological, psychological and social life of an individual in order to give the most suitable treatment. Using the psychodynamic theory enables clinicians to analyze patient’s behavior and actions in light of former experiences in the client’s life that may be the underlying cause of the current condition. The principle of transference and countertransference helps to ease frustrations on the clinician and patient when little or no improvement is registered. In addition, self-knowledge and awareness enables social workers to relate better with other people since they understand their own history and try to help others (Berzoff). Therefore, the interactions and relationships which clients had or have are important in identifying the cause of the exhibiting condition and having such knowledge is crucial in assisting the population at risk.
The drive theory deals with our passions and desires- the id, and the part within us that govern and controls them-the ego. Attaining a balance between the two is essential for normal functioning in everyday life. The part of the mind that integrates our development, unconscious fantasies, trauma, and early contact with culture, society and education systems plays a major role in the nature of one’s life (Berzoff). Similarly, our personal expectations of the environment help us adapt to the presenting factors and form some patterns and consistencies whether they are positive or negative. External influences, such as mentorship, and internal motivation can enable one to achieve different outcomes from an environment where a given result is expected. However, the environment may act to deny us of our true selves by imposing expectations that are hard to meet.
Developmental achievements of seeing other people as partially good or bad enable one to have a better view of themselves without idolizing or hating others. To achieve solitude as a developmental milestone, there is need for a consistent relationship with a caregiver, from whom one can then separate for a given period of time (Berzoff). Clinicians need to understand the inner workings of an individual so as to cease from blindly dispatching suggestions that are not effective. To build a cohesive self, one needs to have other people around who foster safety and stability. People with healthy self-esteem, goals and ambitions have others whom they have mirrored, idolized or twined thus their actions and behaviors are influenced. Clearly, the presence or absence of a holding environment can shape the life of an individual and contribute to their mental health and general outlook of life.
The developmental challenges that an individual faces relate to psychodynamics theory and there is need to deal with past difficulties for each client. Some people undergo oppressive situations early in life that are repetitive. The tendencies to discriminate, dismiss, or scapegoat others stems from insecurities and anxiety to confront situations. Oppression may result from racial prejudice in the case of white people undermining the potential of the blacks ( Berzoff). Those who feel powerless at a certain point in their life might reenact the same later on in life and such issues need to be addressed comprehensively. Overall, psychodynamics theories have been found to be valuable in identifying the conditions people suffer from and their optimal treatment. Therapists have embraced psychoanalytic as technique of dealing with clients whom they meet in various settings and have achieved success. Therefore, the relevant perspective when dealing with clients is understanding that psychology, social and cultural aspects interact with biology and affect the health status of an individual.
Works Cited
Berzoff, Joan. “Why We Need a Biopsychosocial Perspective with Vulnerable, Oppressed, and At-Risk Clients.” Smith College Studies in Social Work, vol. 81, no. 2-3, 2011, pp. 132-166.