Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) Practice Test

According to Carl Jung, what is the primary source of psychic energy?

1. Libido

2. Archetypes

3. Persona

4. Personal unconscious

The correct answer is: Libido

Carl Jung identified libido as the primary source of psychic energy in his theory of analytical psychology. It's important to understand that Jung's concept of libido extends beyond mere sexual energy, which was more aligned with Freud's interpretation. For Jung, libido represents a broader life energy driving not only sexual instincts but also creativity, personal growth, and psychological well-being. This energy fuels our thoughts, feelings, and motivations, influencing our behavior and interactions with the world. In Jungian psychology, libido can manifest in various forms and is essential for achieving individuation, the process of integrating different aspects of the self to achieve a balanced personality. This concept is fundamental to understanding how Jung viewed the functioning of the psyche and its drive toward growth and self-realization. The other terms mentioned—archetypes, persona, and personal unconscious—play significant roles in Jung's framework but do not encapsulate the concept of psychic energy itself. Archetypes serve as universal symbols within the collective unconscious, the persona represents the outward identity we present to the world, and the personal unconscious contains an individual's unique experiences and memories. While all these elements contribute to the complexities of the psyche, they do not serve as the primary source of psychic energy as libido does.