The world of psychoanalysis is full of fascinating stories of collaborations and divergences between big names. One of the most significant was the break between Alfred Adler and Sigmund Freud, two of the main founders of psychoanalysis. In this article, we will explore the fundamental differences that led to this separation.
The relationship between Adler and Freud began promisingly, with both sharing ideas and working together in the early twentieth century. However, over time, significant disagreements emerged that led them to different ways.
Introduction to Adler and Freud theories
To understand the differences between Adler and Freud, it is important to know a little about one’s theories. Freud is famous for his theory of unconscious and the structure of personality, which includes id, ego and superego. Adler has focused more on the importance of socialization and the feeling of inferiority.
Adler believed that people are motivated by the desire to overcome feelings of inadequacy and become useful to society. He also emphasized the importance of education and the family environment in personality formation.
Theoretical Divergences
One of the main differences between Adler and Freud was in relation to the role of the unconscious in personality formation. While Freud saw the unconscious as a powerful force that influences our thoughts and behaviors, Adler considered that consciousness and intention play a more significant role.
In addition, Adler disagreed with Freud’s view of sexuality as one of the main motivating forces of human behavior. He thought human motivation was more complex and multifaceted.
Methodological differences
Another area of divergence was in relation to therapeutic approaches. Freud was an advocate of free analysis, where the patient speaks freely about his thoughts and feelings, while Adler preferred a more directed and educational approach.
Adler believed that the therapist should play a more active role in the session, helping the patient identify and overcome their negative thinking and behavior patterns.
Consequences of the break
The break between Adler and Freud had significant consequences for thepsychoanalysis. Adler’s departure from Vienna’s psychoanalytic society, led by Freud, led to the formation of a new school of thought, known as individual psychology.
This divergence also allowed other psychoanalytic theories and approaches to emerge, enriching the field of psychoanalysis and offering more options for patients and therapists.
Adler-Freud Breed Legacy
The legacy of the break between Adler and Freud can be seen in the diversity of therapeutic approaches available today. Adler’s individual psychology influenced many other theories, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.
In addition, the debate between Adler and Freud about the motivating forces of human behavior remains relevant, with implications for areas such as education, social psychology and mental health.
In short, the break between Adler and Freud was a significant event in the history of psychoanalysis, reflecting fundamental divergences in their theories and approaches. This separation enriched the field of psychoanalysis, allowing new ideas and practices to emerge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Adler-Freud rupture?
The break between Alfred Adler and Sigmund Freud occurred due to fundamental divergences in his psychoanalytic theories. While Freud emphasized the role of unconscious and sexuality in personality formation, Adler highlighted the importance of socialization, the search for superiority and the feeling of inferiority. These differences led to a separation between the two thinkers, with adler eventually founding individual psychology.
What were the main theoretical differences between Adler and Freud?
The main differences included Adler’s vision of human motivation, which he saw as driven by the search for superiority and social recognition, as opposed to Freud’s emphasis on Sexuality and Oedipus Complex. In addition, Adler emphasized the importance of social environment and education in personality formation, while Freud focused more on biological factors and the role of the unconscious.
How did the break between Adler and Freud affected the development of psychoanalysis?
The breakup had a significant impact on the development of psychoanalysis, leading to the creation of divergent schools of thought. Adler’s individual psychology has become a distinct approach, focused on understanding the individual as a whole, including their goals, values and lifestyle. On the other hand, Freudian psychoanalysis continued to explore aspects of unconscious and sexuality, maintaining its influence on psychoanalytic theory and practice.
What was Adler’s role in Vienna’s psychoanalytic society before the breakup?
Before the breakup, Alfred Adler played an important role in the psychoanalytic society of Vienna, founded by Freud. He was one of Freud’s early followers and contributed significantly to the initial development of psychoanalytic theory. However, as their own ideas began to differ from Freud’s, tensions have increased, eventually leading Adler’s departure from society and the establishment of their own theoretical approach.
How are Adler’s contributions to psychology seen today?
Nowadays, Alfred Adler’s contributions to psychology are widely recognized and respected. Its emphasis on the importance of socialization, the feeling of inferiority and the pursuit of superiority is considered fundamental to understanding human motivation and personality development. Adler’s individual psychology continues to influence various areas of psychology, including clinical psychology, education and consultancy, offering a holistic and focused approach to the individual as a whole.
