A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

Which psychological treatment did Freud advocate as the 'talking cure'?

1. Behavioral therapy

2. Cognitive therapy

3. Psychoanalysis

4. Group therapy

The correct answer is: Psychoanalysis

Freud advocated for psychoanalysis as the 'talking cure', which emphasizes the importance of verbal communication between the therapist and the patient. This therapeutic approach allows patients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and memories, particularly those that are repressed or unconscious. Through free association, where patients are encouraged to talk freely about their thoughts, Freud believed that individuals could gain insight into their unconscious conflicts and anxieties, leading to healing and resolution of psychological distress. This method contrasts significantly with behavioral therapy, which focuses primarily on modifying specific behaviors through reinforcement and conditioning, rather than discussing thoughts and feelings. Cognitive therapy, while also focused on thoughts, addresses cognitive distortions and aims to change negative thinking patterns but is not centered around the same depth of exploration as psychoanalysis. Group therapy involves multiple participants working together under the guidance of a therapist, differing from the one-on-one nature of psychoanalysis. Thus, psychoanalysis is uniquely recognized for its foundational role in utilizing dialogue as a means for healing, hence its designation as the 'talking cure'.