psychoanalysis
psychoanalysis — noun
1. a set of ideas developed by Sigmund Freud and others about how hidden thoughts a
a set of ideas developed by Sigmund Freud and others about how hidden thoughts and feelings in the unconscious part of the mind influence a person's behaviour and emotional state
Élise's university course covers the history of psychoanalysis from Freud to modern developments.
psychoanalysis as an academic field of study
Many concepts from psychoanalysis, such as the idea of unconscious desires, have influenced modern psychology.
Critics argue that psychoanalysis lacks the scientific evidence that supports other forms of therapy.
Sayaka wrote her final-year essay on how psychoanalysis explains hidden motives behind everyday behaviour.
The lecture on psychoanalysis helped Nicholas understand why people sometimes act without knowing the reason.
- psychodynamic theory
a broader term that includes psychoanalysis and later developments; more commonly used in academic psychology today
- depth psychology
a less common, more formal synonym for theories that explore the unconscious mind
用法筆記
Frequently used as an uncountable noun referring to the whole body of theory, not a specific session or instance. Distinguish from sense 2, where the focus is on the therapeutic technique rather than the theoretical framework.
常見錯誤
2. a way of treating mental health problems in which a person regularly meets a tra
a way of treating mental health problems in which a person regularly meets a trained therapist to talk about their past, their feelings, and their dreams, with the aim of uncovering hidden fears and conflicts
After two years of psychoanalysis, Amira understood the childhood roots of her anxiety.
psychoanalysis as a treatment lasting years
Devika chose psychoanalysis because short-term counselling did not explore her feelings deeply enough.
contrast with short-term counselling
During psychoanalysis, the patient lies on a couch and says whatever comes to mind.
Heloísa's thrice-weekly psychoanalysis sessions helped her understand a recurring dream about a locked room.
Some people find psychoanalysis helpful for long-standing emotional problems that other treatments have not resolved.
- analysis
an informal shortened form of psychoanalysis used mainly by practitioners and patients, e.g. 'in analysis'
- talk therapy
a broad, non-technical term that includes psychoanalysis and other conversation-based treatments; less specific
- psychotherapy
a wider category of treatments that includes psychoanalysis but also many other approaches
用法筆記
Unlike counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy, which are often shorter, psychoanalysis typically involves multiple sessions per week over several years. The practitioner is called a psychoanalyst.