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Chapter 2: Problem 10

Why might a theorist use a construct such as libido, even though it cannot be observed or measured?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Theorists use constructs like libido, despite their intangibility, to aid in the comprehension and explanation of complicated human behaviors and experiences. They act as theoretical tools for formulating hypotheses about specific behaviors that can be tested indirectly.

Step by step solution

01

Understand Role of Constructs

A theorist uses constructs to explain complex human behaviors and experiences, even though they cannot be directly observed or measured. Constructs are ideas or theories that help us understand and explain the world, such as 'intelligence', 'libido', 'love' etc. These constructs play a vital role in formulating theories and interpreting behaviors.
02

Explain the Use of Libido

Libido, though it cannot be observed or measured directly, is a construct that explains a critical aspect of human behavior - sexual drive. The theorist uses this construct as a symbolic representation for something that is central to understanding human behavior and motivations. It is used as a theoretical tool to make hypotheses about behaviors and conditions, such as neurosis and other psychological disorders, that can then be tested using indirect measures.
03

Role in Formulation of Theories

A theorist uses constructs to form hypotheses and theories. These theories then are tested empirically. For example, a theorist might hypothesize that a low libido could result in marital discord. The theory can then be tested by measuring marital satisfaction and using indirect measures of libido, such as frequency of sexual interactions or responses to sex-related stimuli.
04

Understanding the limitations and potential of constructs

While constructs like libido can't be directly quantified or observed, they offer a way of framing and investigating the abstract elements that influence behavior and experience. Without such constructs, many essential aspects of human behavior would remain elusive.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Freud suffered from some of the same neurotic symptoms that he treated in his patients. Would a person who is psychologically healthy have Freud's intense desire to probe deeply within his or her own psyche?

Give an example from your own life, or from the life of someone you know well, which shows that anxiety can be just as painful as (or even more painful than) a physical injury.

A young woman dreams that she rushes to catch a train but gets to the station too late, the train leaves without her, and there are no more trains to her destination for several weeks. On the surface, it appears that the dreamer has been disappointed. How might this dream be interpreted to support Freud's belief that virtually every dream fulfills some wish of the dreamer?

(a) Did Freud regard at least some of his ideas and constructs as truths that deserved to remain unchallenged for a long time? (b) What is the difference between a construct and a fact? (c) Given this difference, is it likely that Freud's constructs would be as enduring as he hoped?

(a) Give an example from your own life of the use of one or more defense mechanisms. (b) What purpose did the defense mechanism(s) serve? (c) Were there any harmful effects? (d) since many of these mechanisms are used unconsciously, how can you (or anyone) know that they actually exist?
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