Implicit perception, implicit memory, and the recovery of unconscious material in psychotherapy

A review of the empirical literature on implicit perception and implicit memory reveals that Freud's hypotheses regarding free association, transference, and the recovery of unconscious material in therapy were correct in some areas and incorrect in others. Empirical evidence confirms that--as Freud hypothesized--when implicit (i.e., unconscious) perceptions and memories are made explicit (i.e., conscious), individuals are able to make more logical, realistic judgments and inferences regarding those perceptions and memories. However, empirical evidence does not support Freud's contention that free association is a particularly powerful tool for accessing unconscious material. The implications of these findings for psychoanalytic theory and therapy are discussed, and alternative approaches to accessing unconscious material in psychotherapy are described.