What is the purpose of Free Association in psychoanalytic therapy?

• A. To reinforce current coping strategies.
• B. To reveal repressed memory fragments unless the client has resistance.
• C. To diagnose personality disorder.
• D. To teach mindfulness techniques.

Answer: (B)

Free association is a technique used to access unconscious material by letting thoughts flow freely without censoring them. This helps bring repressed memories, wishes, and conflicts into awareness, which is central to psychoanalytic work. As painful material emerges, resistance may appear, signaling that the material is threatening and needs careful interpretation. This approach isn’t about reinforcing coping strategies, diagnosing personality disorders, or teaching mindfulness techniques.