Which term refers to bringing unconscious material to conscious awareness in order to gain insight?

• A. Humanistic
• B. Behavioral
• C. Psychoanalytic
• D. Cognitive

Answer: (C)

The idea is to bring unconscious material to conscious awareness to gain insight, which is the hallmark of the psychoanalytic approach. This view holds that much of our mental life operates below awareness, and uncovering these hidden conflicts, wishes, and memories can illuminate why we think, feel, and behave in certain ways. Techniques like free association, dream interpretation, and examining transference are used to surface these unconscious elements, with the aim of understanding and resolving underlying issues. By making the unconscious conscious, individuals gain insight that can lead to meaningful change.

While humanistic therapy focuses on conscious experience, growth, and authentic living; behavioral approaches concentrate on observable actions and learned responses; and cognitive therapy targets dysfunctional thoughts and beliefs, none center on exposing unconscious material to the same extent.