Day 2: Sigmund Freud

October 30, 2009 by admin

Sigmund Freud (1856-1939) was the father of psychoanalysis. He gave us defense mechanisms, dream analysis, psychosexual stages of development, the Oedipus complex, and the id, ego and superego.

Since Freud’s approach was the first modern theory of personality, psychoanalysis is sometimes called the First Force of psychology (behaviorism is the 2nd and humanism is the 3rd). Since his theory is over 100 years old, Freud’s views sometimes conflict with current research findings. Yet it is still surprisingly popular.

I have written an extended report on Freud. It’s 50+ pages, so I think you’ll find it helpful. It’s available as a download here; it’s $5. No pressure to buy.