Treatment FAQ

which treatment approach did freud use to treat his patients

by Sherman Lubowitz Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago

How did Freud find the cure for talking?

After learning about Anna O., Freud tried the talking cure in his own private practice, but found patients would talk pretty freely to him without hypnosis, provided they were in a relaxed position — specifically, lying down on a couch — and if they were encouraged to say whatever came into their heads, a process known as free association. Once a patient talked at length, Freud could analyze what the person said to figure out what past traumas were likely causing the patient's current distress.

What is the study used by Sigmund Freud?

This interior view of the study used by Sigmund Freud shows the famous couch. Authenticated News/Getty Images. Freud is famed for developing psychoanalysis. This therapy involves treating mental disorders by delving into a person's possible unconscious issues (e.g., repressed fears and conflicts) through techniques like dream interpretation ...

Why did Freud think mental health issues stem from repressed thoughts?

After much study and use of the talking cure, Freud decided that mental health issues usually stemmed from repressed thoughts, often of a sexual nature. These could be forbidden sexual urges or due to sexual traumas that were experienced in childhood.

What did Breuer discover about Anna?

Breuer had discovered that if he hypnotized Anna, she'd reveal all sorts of information she didn't recall when she was conscious — and her symptoms would lessen afterward. This psychoanalytic treatment became dubbed the talking cure [sources: PBS, Grayling ]. Advertisement.

What is the purpose of talking cure?

By employing the talking cure, or psychoanalysis, a therapist can help a patient dig into the destructive, hurtful issues in their unconscious minds, after which point they can deal with them.

Is psychoanalysis effective for depression?

But it's not typically used for, say, someone who has temporary anxiety or depression that stems from a specific, identifiable trauma, such as the loss of a child. Nevertheless, studies have shown that psychoanalysis, as practiced today, is effective [source: Schedler ].

Is psychoanalysis still used today?

Psychoanalysis is still in use today, but not widely practiced by therapists (only about 1 in 20,000 Americans use it) [source: Dvorsky ]. It can be helpful for those who have longstanding problems they haven't been able to resolve, such as feelings of inferiority that have lingered since childhood.

What was Freud's goal in psychoanalysis?

The goal of Freudian therapy, or psychoanalysis, was to bring to consciousness repressed thoughts and feelings, in order to allow the patient to develop a stronger ego. Classically, the bringing of unconscious thoughts and feelings to consciousness is brought about by encouraging the patient to talk in "free association" and to talk about dreams. Another important element of psychoanalysis is a relative lack of direct involvement on the part of the analyst, which is meant to encourage the patient to project thoughts and feelings onto the analyst. Through this process, called "transference," the patient can reenact and resolve repressed conflicts, especially childhood conflicts with (or about) parents.

What was Freud's main interest in psychoanalysis?

These became the core elements of psychoanalysis. Freud was initially especially interested in what was then called hysteria (now known as conversion syndrome), but expanded his work to other forms of neurosis, especially obsessive-compulsive disorder.

What is the theory of Freud's theory?

Sigmund Freud (May 6, 1856 – September 23, 1939) was an Austrian neurologist and the founder of the psychoanalytic school of psychology, based on his theory that unconscious motives control much behavior, that particular kinds of unconscious thoughts and memories, especially sexual and aggressive ones, are the source of neurosis, and that neurosis could be treated through bringing these unconscious thoughts and memories to consciousness in psychoanalytic treatment. He was initially interested in hypnotism and how it could be used to help the mentally ill, but later abandoned hypnotism in favor of free association and dream analysis in developing what is now known as "the talking cure." These became the core elements of psychoanalysis. Freud was initially especially interested in what was then called hysteria (now known as conversion syndrome), but expanded his work to other forms of neurosis, especially obsessive-compulsive disorder.

What university did Freud go to?

Sigmund was ranked first in his class in 6 of 8 years of schooling. He went on to attend the University of Vienna at 17, in 1873-1881 despite intense anti-Semitism in Austria. In his 40's, Freud "had numerous psychosomatic disorders as well as exaggerated fears of dying and other phobias" (Corey 2001, p. 67).

How did Freud influence the world?

He simultaneously developed a theory of the human mind and human behavior, and clinical techniques for attempting to help neurotics.

Why was Freud bruised?

Freud was bruised by this, especially because this would turn out to be one of the only safe uses of cocaine, as reports of addiction and overdose began to filter in from many places in the world. Freud's medical reputation became somewhat tarnished for his early enthusiasm.

How many times did Freud destroy his papers?

Overall, little is known of Freud's early life, as he destroyed his personal papers at least twice , once in 1885 and again in 1907.

Who developed psychoanalysis?

In this respect, it applies specific techniques or methods that we intend to present in this section. These methods were first developed by Sigmund Freud. Below is the list of these basic methods.

What is Freud's interpretation of dreams?

- Analysis/Interpretation of Dreams - By far the most important psychoanalytic technique, also called the royal road to the unconscious by Freud himself, dream interpretation is considered by him an irreplaceable means to access the unconscious. The first dream ever interpreted in Freud's style is the Irma's injection published in his ...

What is Freud's emphasis on the distance between the therapist and the client during sessions?

Freud's psychoanalysis placed an emphasis on the distance between the therapist and the client during sessions, they didn't face each other. PDT places a strong emphasis of the importance of the therapeutic alliance and collaborative approach and bringing attention to feelings that are occurring during the session with the therapist and the patient.

Where did Freud get his training?

Freud received training in hypnosis from Jean Martin Charcot at Brucke Neurological Institute. He was the discoverer of hysteria and a talented hynotherapist

Why was the methodolgically unsound method of hysteria unsound?

It was stated that his methods were methodolgically unsound because there is no way to prove that the interpretation made by the clinician is correct. His work with hysteria patients was from a homegenous group of upper class women but he generalized the results to all women

What was Charcot's method of treatment for hysteria?

He initially used Charcot's method of treatment for hysteria which included electrotherapy, and suggestion/ assurance to his patient that the treatment would rid them of their symptoms. Eventually he decided to use more direct hypnotic suggestion instead of electrotherapy

What did Freud believe about memory?

He believed that patients that could not remember traumatic memories were protecting themselves from the pain

What is the form of therapy based on psychoanalytic principles?

Form of therapy based on psychoanalytic principles that unconscious content of a client must be revealed to alleviate psychological tension. This theory focuses on the subconscious processes that are manifested in a person's present behavior

What is unconscious coping?

Unconscious coping technique that presents itself when an individual feels anxiety or threatened. It is the body's way of protecting itself

What did Freud believe about the unconscious?

Freud believed that the unconscious conflicts in your mind caused anxiety, moodiness, depressive thoughts, troubling personality traits, and difficulties maintaining relationships. He believed these problems were rooted in past experiences and relationships. That’s why psychoanalysis focuses on long-term treatment.

Who developed psychoanalysis?

Psychoanalysis was developed by Sigmund Freud, who faced a lot of criticisms over his work and theories. However, psychoanalysis was incredibly influential for modern-day therapy. Freud’s approach to therapy and the idea that mental illness was treatable was an important concept.

What is psychoanalysis therapy?

What Is Psychoanalysis? Psychoanalysis is a set of psychological theories and methods of therapy founded by Sigmund Freud. Psychoanalysis revolves around the belief that everyone has unconscious thoughts, feelings, desires, and memories. Psychoanalysis therapy is used to release repressed emotions and experiences.

How long does psychoanalytic therapy last?

Psychoanalytic therapists determine the length of treatment based on the patient's needs. This could be once or twice weekly and could last several weeks. There are still some cases where therapy lasts several years. The goal is to make sure their patients understand themselves better so they can stop repeating old patterns and heal.

How does psychoanalysis affect mental health?

Impact of Psychoanalysis on Mental Health. Psychoanalysis focuses on the influence of repressed impulses, internal conflicts, and childhood traumas and how they affect mental health. Psychoanalysis as a therapy aims to modify your personality by focusing on redirecting your habits.

How do psychoanalysts help with neurosis?

To improve these conflicts and resolve your problems, psychoanalysts use free association and dream analysis, analyze your resistance and deference mechanisms, and work with you through your feelings.

What are the limitations of psychoanalysis?

Psychoanalysis is rooted in theory but doesn’t revolve around science. There is a push to ensure that the evidence of success in psychoanalysis is strengthened by data-gathering methods and a systematic outlook. The idea of the unconscious mind was hard to grasp by philosophers during Freud’s day.

What is Freud's approach to emotional disorders?

Specifically, it examines how your experiences (often from childhood) may be contributing to your current experience and actions. Psychoanalytic approaches to emotional disorders have advanced a great deal since Freud's time.

What did Freud think of the unconscious?

Freud described the unconscious as the reservoir of desires, thoughts, and memories that are below the surface of conscious awareness. He believed that these unconscious influences could often lead to psychological distress and disturbances.

What are the benefits of psychoanalytic therapy?

Benefits of Psychoanalytic Therapy 1 Focuses on emotions. Where CBT is centered on cognition and behaviors, psychoanalytic therapy explores the full range of emotions that a patient is experiencing. 2 Explores avoidance. People often avoid certain feelings, thoughts, and situations they find distressing. Understanding what a client is avoiding can help both the psychoanalyst and the client understand why such avoidance comes into play. 3 Identifies recurring themes. Some people may be aware of their self-destructive behaviors but unable to stop them. Others may not be aware of these patterns and how they influence their behaviors. 4 Exploration of past experienced. Other therapies often focus more on the here-and-now, or how current thoughts and behaviors influence how a person functions. The psychoanalytic approach helps people explore their pasts and understand how it affects their present psychological difficulties. It can help patients shed the bonds of past experience to live more fully in the present. 5 Explores interpersonal relationships. Through the therapy process, people are able to explore their relationships with others, both current and past. 6 Emphasizes the therapeutic relationship. Because psychoanalytic therapy is so personal, the relationship between the psychoanalyst and the patient provides a unique opportunity to explore and reword relational patterns that emerge in the treatment relationship. 7 Free-flowing. Where other therapies are often highly structured and goal-oriented, psychoanalytic therapy allows the patient to explore freely. Patients are free to talk about fears, fantasies, desires, and dreams.

How often do you meet with a psychoanalyst?

People undergoing psychoanalytic therapy often meet with their psychoanalyst at least once a week. They can remain in therapy for months or even years. Psychoanalysts use a variety of techniques to gain insight into your behavior.

What is the most important psychoanalytic technique?

Some of the more popular techniques include: Dream interpretation: According to Freud, dream analysis is by far the most important psychoanalytic technique. He often referred to dreams as "the royal road to the unconscious.". 1 Psychoanalysts may interpret dreams to get insight into the workings of your unconscious mind.

Why do psychoanalysts interpret dreams?

1 Psychoanalysts may interpret dreams to get insight into the workings of your unconscious mind. Free association: Free association is an exercise during which the psychoanalyst encourages you to freely share your thoughts. This can lead to the emergence of unexpected connections and memories.

How does therapy help people?

It can help patients shed the bonds of past experience to live more fully in the present. Explores interpersonal relationships. Through the therapy process, people are able to explore their relationships with others, both current and past. Emphasizes the therapeutic relationship.

What did Freud's patients complain about?

According to several biographers, one of Freud’s patients, Emma Eckstein, had come to him complaining of stomach pains and depression related to her menstrual cycle.

Who prescribed cocaine to Freud?

Oblivious to cocaine’s addictive properties, Freud prescribed cocaine to his friend and teacher, Ernst von Fleischl-Marxow.

How many inches of gauze did Freud and Fleiss leave up there?

This time, Freud called a different doctor to inspect her nose; the doctor pulled out twenty inches of gauze that Freud and Fleiss had accidentally left up there. According to both men present, blood poured from her nose like a faucet; her eyes bulged, she turned white, and for thirty seconds she lost her pulse.

What did Freud think of the hysteria of the hysteria?

Freud diagnosed her with hysteria and “masturbating to excess,” something he believed was both a mental illness and the root of all addiction, as he wrote in the abstract of “Masturbation, addiction and obsessional neurosis” (1897). He called in Fleiss, an otolaryngologist, for the treatment: cauterization of the nose.

How did Freud's cocaine episode influence his theories?

He discusses how cocaine partly inspired Freud’s famous “free association” technique, where he asked his patients to voice their unconditioned, “stream of consciousness” thoughts.

What were Freud's two vices?

Looking for stress-relief, Freud took to his two favorite vices: cigars and cocaine. “Today I can write because I have more hope,” he wrote Fleiss. “I pulled myself out of a miserable attack with a cocaine application.”.

Did Freud ever use cocaine?

When the dark side of cocaine began to emerge, after more than a decade of using the drug, Freud kicked his habit, and did everything in his power to erase public knowledge he had ever touched it.

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