According to the psychodynamic perspective, what was the primary purpose of the first personality test developed in psychology?

• A. To assess unconscious motives and conflicts influencing behavior
• B. To evaluate physical health and fitness levels
• C. To determine vocational interests and career preferences
• D. To measure intelligence and cognitive abilities

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the psychodynamic perspective, which emphasizes unconscious motives, conflicts, and early childhood experiences as key influences on behavior.
2. Recognize that the first personality tests developed within this framework aimed to explore aspects of the unconscious mind rather than overt traits or abilities.
3. Identify that these early tests were designed to reveal hidden desires, fears, and internal conflicts that might influence a person's behavior without their conscious awareness.
4. Compare the options given: assessing unconscious motives aligns with the psychodynamic approach, while evaluating physical health, vocational interests, or intelligence relates to other psychological perspectives or fields.
5. Conclude that the primary purpose of the first personality test in psychology, from the psychodynamic perspective, was to assess unconscious motives and conflicts influencing behavior.