Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Information Need

Brief Blog Exercise

I haven't really begun researching my topic so I'm not sure if there is sufficient scholarly information out there or not. If there isn't, I may need to re-approach the research assignment with a different question.

I think I need to look up basic information regarding psychoanalysis: What theories was it founded on, what are the basic elements guiding this practice of science, and what are the techniques used to exercise psychoanalytic therapy. Next I need to to look up the same information about psychology. That will give me a better foundation to compare and contrast the two fields.

Prospectus

These ideas are far from organized in a well thought out manner, but this is what I have been brainstorming thus far...

What do I know?

I do know I would like to research the area of psychoanalysis. Why? Because this is a science that is not widely practiced within the United States and the little I have experienced with it fascinates me. My grandmother is a psychoanalyst in Brazil, and has taken me to work several times. I've met her colleagues and the school she attends. One interesting thing about psychoanalysis which differs from psychology is that analyst themselves must undergo the process of analysis from beginning to end. Although I believe many psychologists have done therapy, they are not required to at the extent which psychoanalysts are. For these reasons, which perk my curiosity, I'd like to do my INLS research project on psychoanalysis.

Rough Prospectus Paragraph and Research Question:

What are the facets of psychoanalysis which have stunted it from attaining popularity within the United States? Psychoanalysis stems from Freudian thought, which although is recognized within the United States, contains a stigma. It is an uncharted field of science many are hesitant to step foot in. Psychology, on the other hand, is a widely practiced tool of therapy, as is psychiatry. I propose to compare and contrast the field of psychoanalysis and psychology in attempts to better understand why psychoanalysis has not attained the high demands of psychology.

Sunday, August 26, 2007

Intro Post

My name is Nina and welcome to my INLS blog. I'm a senior and International Studies major. If all goes well I'll graduate in December. I have one younger brother that is 11 - yes that is a ten year gap. I love traveling, learning new cultures, and picking up different languages. One of my favorite foods is black beans and rice, it goes well with about anything, and I also enjoy different kinds of fruits.