Question

What is the main sticking point between the theories of Sigmund Freud and Karen Horney? How are their theories alike? Which do you agree with, if either?

Answer 1

Sigmund Freud and Karen Horney are remarkable psychologists in their own fields. Sigmund Freud considered to be the father of Psycho-analysis, provided rich resources to the world of psychology which enabled many to review their ideologies and some even oppose the same. He was remarkable in treating his high-class patients using techniques like the free association and dream analysis which is one of the techniques used even to this modern day. Karen Horney, on the other side was a fan of Sigmund Freud who used his techniques to treat her patients. She was one of the pioneers of feminism.

The main sticking point between both these theories of Sigmund Freud and Karen Horney are subjected to applied analysis and clinical analysis. Both the theories focus on the psychic aspects of the human life. Both the theories give emphasis to the unconscious phenomenon which is the central core of the theory. The mention of “Envy” is similar in both the theories but difference exists within the gendered stereotype (Penis envy and Womb envy).

However, though these theories are similar in the central concept, yet the Sigmund Freud’s theory stands out as Karen Horney’s theory was an extension and a critique to Sigmund Freuds’ theory. Sigmund Freud’s concepts seem to be very true as they provide the basis for many psychotic and psychological disorders. The concepts such as the structure of mind: Conscious, Pre-conscious and unconscious give a detailed picture of how people react the way they are. The structure of personality: Id, Ego and Super-ego and the psycho sexual stages: oral, anal, oedipal, latency and genital stages provides us with extensive information about the ways in which people can behave and can also be treated. These theories play a very important role in therapies which facilitates the progress of human life.