International Relations and the Psychology of Control: Alternative Control Strategies and Their Consequences

Abstract

Research into the psychology of has revealed that needs are key elements of individual psychological functioning. This paper argues that a need for control framework is also useful for understanding actions and ideologies at the national and international levels. It critically analyzes prevalent strategies for exerting in this domain and proposes alternative strategies which permit greater fulfillment of needs. These alternatives emerge from an examination of potential similarities between satisfaction of needs within the separate but parallel domains of international relations and interpersonal relations.