The past decade has seen much research and experimentation on the relations
hip between cognition and unconscious processes. The unconscious has become
not only acceptable in academic and experimental studies, but has spurred
much stimulation and excitement. There is a beginning rapprochement between
cognitive psychology and psychoanalysis. This article provides historical
perspective to recent efforts and offers a phenomenological view of some of
the concepts. It also offers insight into the creative process as it relat
es to the unconscious and to current findings, It is suggested that change
in the course of psychoanalysis, by relating the past to the present and by
using free association and dream interpretation, is fostered through restr
ucturing of the ways in which the individual perceives himself or herself i
n the context of his or her primary family and his or her place in the worl
d. As the individual revises self-percepts, the entire psychological field
undergoes revision. The place of affects in fostering restructuring is disc
ussed. Clinical examples are used, followed by a discussion of the relation
ship between cognitive and psychoanalytic psychology.