Psychoanalytic theory emphasizes childhood experiences in understanding mental activity—both conscious and (primarily) unconscious. As you read the articles in this week’s Learning Resources, consider how psychoanalytic theorists perceived the role of pretend play in primary process thought and the development of creativity. Russ (2014) points out that the same activity (play) serves a different function in development based on the theory being examined.
In Week 2, you considered the components of a good theory from Chapter 1 of the Newman and Newman text and determined whether the theory in a research article was found to be good theory. For this Discussion, you will evaluate whether psychoanalytic theory is a “good” theory for understanding specific areas of development. By evaluating a theory in this way, you gain insights into its scope and applicability in developmental research. Review Chapters 1 and 3 of the Newman and Newman text found in the Learning Resources for this week.
Review the Russ article found in the Learning Resources and consider whether psychoanalytic theory meets “good” theory expectations in relation to pretend play, creativity, or attachment. (Note: Choose pretend play, creativity, or attachment for this Discussion.)
Post a description of the components of a theory and requirements of a “good” theory. Then, explain whether psychoanalytic theory meets the expectations of a “good” theory in understanding one of the following: play, creativity, or attachment. Explain why you reached that conclusion.
