Today, Sigmund Freud's concept of _____ remains useful in clinical psychology.

• A. defense mechanisms
• B. sexual stages
• C. penis envy
• D. the Oedipus complex

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key concept that Sigmund Freud is known for in clinical psychology. Freud introduced several theories, but some have had a more lasting impact than others.
2. Consider the options provided: defense mechanisms, sexual stages, penis envy, and the Oedipus complex. Each of these is associated with Freud's theories.
3. Understand that 'defense mechanisms' are strategies used by the ego to protect against anxiety and are widely used in clinical psychology today. This concept is often applied in therapy to help understand patients' behaviors.
4. Recognize that while 'sexual stages,' 'penis envy,' and 'the Oedipus complex' are also part of Freud's theories, they are more specific to his psychosexual development theory and are less commonly used in modern clinical practice.
5. Conclude that 'defense mechanisms' is the concept that remains most useful and relevant in contemporary clinical psychology, as it is frequently applied in therapeutic settings to understand and address patients' psychological defenses.