Word Association - Key to the Unconscious

The unconscious is that vast part of the mind containing things we're unaware of such as forgotten or repressed experiences, desires etc; and basic innate instincts. Although (by definition) we are unaware of the content of our unconscious, it has a significant impact both on how we perceive the world and on the choices we make.

Psychology provides various methods by which we can gain greater understanding of our unconscious, and hence our self. One of these techniques, featured here, is word association; eg see The Association Method, Carl G. Jung (1910).

To take the Word Association test: take a minute or so to relax, take some deep breaths and try to clear your mind of its usual noise. For each word displayed, type the first word that comes to mind. There are 50 words in the test. When you are ready, click the button to begin...

Word Association test created by Self Help Sanctum