One of the problems modern psychologists have with Freud's psychoanalytic theory is that

• A. it focuses exclusively on observable behaviors and ignores unconscious processes
• B. it was developed using large, diverse, and representative samples
• C. it lacks empirical support and is difficult to scientifically test
• D. it emphasizes the role of genetics over environmental influences

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the core of Freud's psychoanalytic theory, which emphasizes unconscious processes, childhood experiences, and internal conflicts as key drivers of behavior.
2. Step 2: Recognize that one major criticism of Freud's theory is related to its scientific validity, specifically that many of its concepts are difficult to test empirically using scientific methods.
3. Step 3: Note that Freud's theory does not focus exclusively on observable behaviors; rather, it emphasizes unconscious mental processes, so the first option is incorrect.
4. Step 4: Consider the nature of the samples Freud used; his work was largely based on case studies and not on large, diverse, or representative samples, so the second option is incorrect.
5. Step 5: Understand that Freud's theory places more emphasis on unconscious processes and early experiences than on genetics, so the last option is also incorrect. Therefore, the main problem is that the theory lacks empirical support and is difficult to scientifically test.