Which theory views clients as being influenced by their early childhood experiences?

Psychoanalytic Theory is grounded in the idea that early childhood experiences significantly shape an individual's personality and behavior throughout their life. This theory, which originated primarily from the work of Sigmund Freud, posits that unconscious conflicts and repressed memories from childhood directly impact emotions, relationships, and behaviors in adulthood.

In the context of financial counseling, understanding a client's early experiences can be crucial in identifying how those formative years may affect their attitudes toward money, spending, saving, and financial decision-making. For example, a client who experienced scarcity during childhood may have developed anxiety around financial stability, influencing their current financial behaviors.

The other theories listed focus on different aspects of the human experience. Cognitive-Behavioral Theory emphasizes the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, focusing more on present cognitive processes than on past experiences. Humanistic Theory centers on individual potential and personal growth, advocating for a more optimistic view of human nature, and while it acknowledges experiences, it does not specifically focus on childhood. Existential Theory deals with individual existence, freedom, and choice, emphasizing the search for meaning rather than early influences. Understanding the distinct focus of Psychoanalytic Theory helps clarify why it is the correct choice in this context.