Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

What theory by Freud differentiates the mind into unconscious and preconscious levels?

1. Structural theory

2. Topographical theory

3. Developmental theory

4. Behavioral theory

The correct answer is: Topographical theory

The topographical theory is essential to understanding Freud's model of the mind, as it categorizes mental processes into different levels. According to this theory, the mind consists of three distinct layers: the unconscious, the preconscious, and the conscious. The unconscious contains thoughts, memories, and desires that are not immediately accessible to conscious awareness but still influence behavior. It holds repressed memories and instinctual drives. The preconscious serves as a buffer zone, containing information that is not actively thought about but can be recalled into consciousness with relative ease. This distinction allows for a deeper understanding of how unacknowledged feelings and thoughts can impact an individual's actions and mental health. Other theories mentioned, such as structural, developmental, and behavioral theory, focus on different aspects of human psychology rather than the organization of the mind. For instance, the structural theory, which refers to Freud's divisions of the mind into the id, ego, and superego, addresses the mechanics of personality rather than the mental levels. Developmental theory relates to the stages of psychological growth over a person's life, and behavioral theory focuses on observable behavior rather than internal cognitive processes. Hence, topographical theory is rightly identified as the framework that differentiates the mind into unconscious and