Freud's Psychodynamic Theory

Sigmund Freud had it right; well almost. In his psychodynamic theory Freud claims human motivation and behavior stems from instinctual impulses, mainly sexual and aggression. Freud continues by saying, the Id (area of the mind where instinctual impulses of sex and aggression and their derivative wishes, fantasies, and inclinations come from) is the root of all neurotic desires and debaucheries. Further, these instinctive desires are unavoidable. Next, Freud coins the superego as the primitive internalized representation of the norms and values of society as acquired through identification with the parents. Finally, Freud explains the intermediary between the Id and Superego labeling it the Ego.

The Id is better defined as sin. Yes we all have a sinful instinct and a willful desire to gratify these desires. The superego is the Holy Spirit. He gives us correction, direction, and encouragement; not some omniscient parental advice as Freud suggests. Then there is the Ego. The individual self is the ego.

Humanity is being pulled between the debaucheries of sin fostered by Satan and the purity of righteousness Fostered by the Holy Spirit. Our conscious decision is hung in between the two. The coping mechanism shouldn’t be repression, rejection, denial, sublimation, displacement, regression, or rationalization. The coping mechanism between sin and God is Jesus Christ and what He provides: Redemption, justification, forgiveness and remission of sins. Freud almost had it.