Page 20 - History of Psychology

Chapter

Psychoanalysis 7

Sigmund Freud

When psychology first became a science, the emphasis was on consciousness and
then behavior. Then came a new thought in which psychology emphasizes the

subconscious mind. It was originally formed out of concern and desire to better
understand mental health/disorders. With an emphasis on the subconscious, of
course, in contrast to the conscious and behavior. So that this psychoanalytic
developmental figure separated himself not only from psychologists but also the
medical profession.

Sigmund Freud became a pioneer and a figure who is always identified with
psychoanalysis. Freud (1856-1939) was born into a poor family and became a
victim of anti-Semitism in the 19th century, which was real and severe in central
and eastern Europe. Freud showed tendencies and talents early on in various
intellectual fields. After becoming a doctor, Freud treated many patients who
experienced anatomical and organic problems of the nervous system. Shortly
afterward, Freud became friends with Josef Breuer and worked with
neuroscientists and used hypnosis and cathartic methods. But then Freud
gradually abandoned hypnosis and focused more on catharsis.

Freud then uses catharsis as a form of treatment, where catharsis encourages the
patient to talk about whatever comes to mind. Free association is carried out in a
relaxed atmosphere which allows hidden thoughts and memories to be raised to

consciousness. In free association there is a transference process which includes
experiences that are full of emotional burdens that allow the patient to re-
experience repressed past episodes. According to Freud, psychoanalysis is part of
the transference process and is often the object of emotion, so transference is
considered a powerful tool to help patients deal with sources of anxiety.

In 1987, Freud began to develop an important technique also in the
psychoanalytic movement, namely dream analysis. Freud then published his first
major work, The Interpretation of Dreams. Continuing in 1901, he published The
Psychopathology of Everyday Life. Freud argued that human psychology in
general, not just those who experience neurotic symptoms, can be understood as
unconscious forces requiring resolution. Freud developed motivational principles
that depend on the force of energy from outside the level of self-awareness.

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