Elements of dynamics VI: the dynamic unconscious and unconscious dynamics

J Am Acad Psychoanal Dyn Psychiatry. 2005 Fall;33(3):547-60. doi: 10.1521/jaap.2005.33.3.547.

Abstract

The dynamic unconscious remains in contention in cognitive psychology. Academic settings may not provide the compelling evidence of unconscious dynamics regularly experienced by dynamic psychiatrists, psychoanalysts, and other physicians, including neurologists treating psychogenic motor disorders in the movement disorder clinic. An origin of unconscious motor expression is postulated in the intermodal connectivity of neuromental agencies, extending an idea that originated in Freud's (1950/1966) "Project for a Scientific Psychology." Motoric alexithymia is contrasted with synesthesia. Other examples of unconscious psychodynamics of everyday life are readily found in sexual expression. Dynamic pressures that render processes unconscious may also originate interpersonally. Illustrations are drawn from cultural influence, peer and parental pressure, sports competition, military combat, and reactions to dangerous predators.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Affective Symptoms / psychology
  • Humans
  • Internal-External Control
  • Movement Disorders / psychology
  • Psychoanalytic Theory*
  • Sexuality / psychology
  • Unconscious, Psychology*