Which term is the technique of permitting the client to say whatever comes to mind without censor?

Which term is the technique of permitting the client to say whatever comes to mind without censor?

• A. Interpretation
• B. Interjection
• C. Libido
• D. Free association

Answer: (D)

Free association invites the client to speak whatever comes to mind, without censoring or filtering. This unguarded flow helps reveal thoughts, memories, and feelings that may be unconscious or repressed, because defenses that normally block material from surfacing are momentarily relaxed. In psychoanalytic practice, this is how hidden conflicts are more likely to come to light, giving the therapist material to work with and explore for deeper insight. Interpretation is a later step where the clinician notes patterns or connections and offers meaning to help the client gain insight, rather than simply allowing thoughts to stream out. Libido refers to psychic energy or drives, not a technique. Interjection isn’t the technique described here.

Free association invites the client to speak whatever comes to mind, without censoring or filtering. This unguarded flow helps reveal thoughts, memories, and feelings that may be unconscious or repressed, because defenses that normally block material from surfacing are momentarily relaxed. In psychoanalytic practice, this is how hidden conflicts are more likely to come to light, giving the therapist material to work with and explore for deeper insight.

Interpretation is a later step where the clinician notes patterns or connections and offers meaning to help the client gain insight, rather than simply allowing thoughts to stream out. Libido refers to psychic energy or drives, not a technique. Interjection isn’t the technique described here.