| Criterion |
Freud's Psychoanalytic Theory |
Adler's Individual Psychology |
Erikson's Psychosocial Theory |
| Generates Research |
High - Freud's theory has stimulated a vast amount of research, particularly in the areas of dream analysis, psychoanalysis, and unconscious processes. |
Moderate - Adler's theory has been less influential in generating research compared to Freud's, but it has inspired research on topics such as birth order, inferiority complex, and social interest. |
High - Erikson's theory has generated significant research, particularly in the areas of lifespan development, identity formation, and cultural influences on personality. |
| Falsifiable |
Low - Many of Freud's concepts, such as the unconscious and the Oedipus complex, are difficult to test empirically and falsify. |
Moderate - Some aspects of Adler's theory, such as birth order and lifestyle analysis, can be tested empirically, although the specific mechanisms underlying these concepts are often difficult to isolate and measure. |
Moderate - While Erikson's stages of psychosocial development are relatively clear-cut, the specific mechanisms underlying personality development can be difficult to isolate and measure. |
| Organizes Data |
High - Freud's theory provides a comprehensive framework for understanding human behavior, including motivation, dreams, and psychopathology. |
Moderate - Adler's theory offers a useful framework for understanding individual differences in personality, particularly in terms of striving for superiority and social interest. |
High - Erikson's theory provides a comprehensive framework for understanding personality development across the lifespan, highlighting the importance of social and cultural factors. |
| Guides Action |
Moderate - Psychoanalysis, a therapy based on Freud's theory, can be helpful for individuals struggling with unconscious conflicts and emotional difficulties. |
Moderate - Adlerian therapy, which focuses on identifying and addressing maladaptive lifestyle patterns, can be helpful for individuals seeking to improve their social relationships and self-esteem. |
High - Erikson's theory can be applied to various fields, including education, counseling, and social work, to promote healthy personality development and address developmental crises. |
| Internally Consistent |
Low - Some aspects of Freud's theory, such as the role of the libido and the Oedipus complex, are controversial and have been subject to criticism. |
Moderate - Adler's theory is generally internally consistent, but some aspects, such as the concept of fictional finalism, can be challenging to understand and apply. |
High - Erikson's theory is relatively internally consistent, with a clear and logical progression of stages. |
| Parsimonious |
Low - Freud's theory is complex and involves many abstract concepts, making it difficult to understand and apply. |
Moderate - Adler's theory is relatively parsimonious, focusing on a few core concepts. |
Moderate - Erikson's theory is more complex than Adler's, but it provides a comprehensive framework for understanding personality development. |