Problem 5 - An Introduction to Theories of Personality

Question

Consider Sullivan's and Freud's definitions of sublimation. (a) How are they similar? (b) How do they differ? Illustrate with an example.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Both Freud and Sullivan view sublimation as a beneficial psychological defense mechanism that helps in tranforming unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable behavior. However, Freud's view is more centered around the sexual instinct and its transformation into nonsexual activities, while Sullivan's perspective is broader, focusing on the overall psychological maturation process of an individual in dealing with anxieties and conflicts. An example of sublimation could be an aggressive person channeling his aggression into boxing, a socially acceptable activity, reflecting both Freud's and Sullivan's view of sublimation.

Step 1: Understanding Sublimation

Before comparing Sullivan's and Freud's definitions of sublimation, it's necessary to understand what sublimation means in psychology. Sublimation is a defense mechanism where socially unacceptable impulses are transformed into socially acceptable actions or behavior.

Step 2: Freud's perspective

Freud viewed sublimation as a sexual instinct diverted or 'sublimated' towards socially acceptable activities such as art, science, etc. So, according to Freud, sublimation serves a person by providing a socially acceptable channel to express their unacceptable desires.

Step 3: Sullivan's perspective

Sullivan, on the other hand, envisioned sublimation as a mature way to respond to tensions and anxiety without resorting to primitive defensive mechanisms. So, according to Sullivan, sublimation allows an individual to deal with anxiety or inner conflicts in a positive manner that is beneficial to society.

Step 4: Comparing Similarities

Both Freud and Sullivan saw sublimation as a way to manage undesirable desires, thoughts or feelings, and both viewed it as, in some ways, beneficial to society or the individual. This is the key similarity between the two.

Step 5: Highlighting Differences

The main difference lies in the focus: Freud's understanding is heavily centered around the sexual instinct and how it can be diverted, while Sullivan's definition emphasizes the overall maturation process of handling anxieties and tensions.

Step 6: Illustrative Example

Consider a person with aggressive tendencies. According to Freud, if this person channels his aggression into boxing, a socially acceptable activity, it can be seen as sublimation. Sullivan, however, might view sublimation in the same scenario as the individual's mature way of handling his aggressive tendencies without resorting to physical violence against others.