Which theory outlines that personality and behavior are shaped by unconscious forces and conflicts?

Psychoanalytic theory is the correct choice because it fundamentally posits that our personality and behavior are heavily influenced by unconscious processes, including repressed memories and unresolved conflicts stemming from childhood experiences. This theory, primarily developed by Sigmund Freud, suggests that many aspects of human behavior are motivated by unconscious drives, such as sexual and aggressive urges, which are often in conflict with societal norms and personal ethics.

Freud introduced concepts such as the id, ego, and superego to illustrate how these internal conflicts manifest in our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. The interplay between these components can lead to various psychological outcomes, illustrating how deeply the unconscious mind can shape personality and actions.

In contrast, behaviorism focuses on observable behaviors rather than internal mental processes, emphasizing the role of the environment and conditioning in shaping behavior. Cognitive theory centers on mental processes such as thinking, memory, and problem-solving, while humanistic theory emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization, prioritizing conscious experience and the individual's capacity for change. These approaches do not delve into the unconscious dynamics that psychoanalytic theory highlights.