What perspective suggests behaviors are influenced by repressed desires and childhood experiences?

The correct answer is the Psychodynamic Perspective, which emphasizes the influence of unconscious processes, repressed desires, and early childhood experiences on behavior. This approach was primarily developed by Sigmund Freud, who proposed that unresolved conflicts from childhood can manifest in various ways throughout a person's life, influencing their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. The idea is that certain experiences, particularly those involving trauma or unmet needs during formative years, may be repressed into the unconscious mind. Such repression can lead to ongoing psychological tension and issues that may not be immediately apparent but can be addressed through therapeutic techniques like free association and dream analysis.

In contrast, the Behavioral Perspective focuses solely on observable behaviors and the ways they are learned through interactions with the environment, ignoring internal mental states. The Cognitive Perspective centers on mental processes like perception, memory, and decision-making, emphasizing how people think about and interpret their experiences. The Humanistic Perspective stresses personal growth and the inherent goodness of people, focusing on concepts like self-actualization rather than repressed desires.

By providing insight into how early experiences shape behavior through unconscious influences, the Psychodynamic Perspective offers a unique understanding of the complexities of human psychology.