Based on Poole's behavior in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, readers can infer that he is motivated by unconscious fears and anxieties, consistent with the psychodynamic perspective on personality. Which of the following best describes Poole's actions from this viewpoint?

• A. He acts out of deep-seated anxiety and concern for Dr. Jekyll's safety, reflecting unconscious motives.
• B. He shows no emotional response and remains detached from the events in the house.
• C. He relies solely on logical reasoning and evidence to make decisions about Dr. Jekyll.
• D. He is primarily motivated by a desire for social status and public recognition.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the psychodynamic perspective, which emphasizes unconscious motives, fears, and anxieties as key drivers of behavior.
2. Step 2: Analyze Poole's behavior in the story, noting his emotional responses and concern for Dr. Jekyll's safety, which suggest underlying unconscious fears.
3. Step 3: Compare Poole's actions to the options given, identifying which description aligns with acting out of unconscious anxiety rather than detachment, pure logic, or social ambition.
4. Step 4: Recognize that Poole's deep concern and anxiety reflect unconscious motives, consistent with the psychodynamic view that behavior is influenced by hidden emotional forces.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description of Poole's actions is that he acts out of deep-seated anxiety and concern for Dr. Jekyll's safety, reflecting unconscious motives.