Orthodox Freudian Analysis: Key Features, Process and Applications
1. Introduction
It is widely accepted that Sigmund Freud is the father of psychoanalysis, and his pioneering work in the early 1900s led to the development of this unique field of psychological study and therapy (Gay, 1988). Freudian psychoanalysis has been criticised over the years for a number of reasons, but it still remains one of the most influential theories in psychology. In this essay, we will take a closer look at one particular type of psychoanalysis known as orthodox Freudian analysis, and discuss its key features, process and applications.
2. What is orthodox Freudian analysis?
Orthodox Freudian analysis is based on the classic theory of psychoanalysis put forward by Sigmund Freud. It focuses on dream analysis and free association as a way of extracting information about the patient's mental problems (McDougall, 1989). The therapist will interpret the patient's dreams and help them to understand the hidden meanings behind them. Free association is a technique where patients are encouraged to say whatever comes into their mind without censorship, in order to uncover any repressed thoughts or feelings. The therapist will also look for patterns in the patient's behaviour and try to identify any defence mechanisms that they may be using.
3. The general process of orthodox Freudian analysis
The general process of orthodox Freudian analysis can be divided into three main stages:
The first stage is known as the "initial phase", and it involves establishing trust and rapport between the patient and therapist. The therapist will also try to gather some basic information about the patient's background and current problems.
The second stage is known as the "working phase", and it is during this phase that the therapist will begin to interpret the patient's Dreams using psychodynamic concepts. The therapist will also encourage the patient to start practising free association, in order to uncover any repressed thoughts or feelings.
The final stage is known as the "termination phase", and it is during this stage that the therapist will help the patient to understand how their early experiences have shaped their current behaviour. The therapist will also teach the patient some techniques that they can use to cope with their problems in future.
4. Resistance in orthodox Freudian analysis
Resistance is a normal phenomenon that occurs during orthodox Freudian analysis, and it refers to the patient’s unconscious tendency to protect themselves from painful memories or emotions (Freud, 1923). Resistance can take many different forms, such as denial, rationalisation, displacement, etc. It is important for therapists to be aware of resistance because it can prevent patients from making progress in therapy.
5. Transference in orthodox Freudian analysis
Transference occurs when patients unconsciously transfer their feelings towards other people from their past onto their therapist (Freud, 1912). This can often happen if a patient has had a bad experience with someone in their past who reminds them of their therapist. Transference can be both positive and negative, but it is generally seen as something that needs to be resolved in order for therapy to be successful.
6. The applications of orthodox Freudian analysis in understanding the Hong Kong population
Orthodox Freudian analysis can be applied in a number of different ways, but one of the most popular applications is in understanding the Hong Kong population. The Asian culture is generally quite collectivistic, which means that people are more likely to think of themselves as part of a group rather than as individuals (Triandis, 1994). This is in contrast to the Western individualistic culture, where people are more likely to think of themselves as individuals. Orthodox Freudian analysis can help us to understand how the collectivistic culture of Hong Kong affects the way that people think and behave.
7. Conclusion
In conclusion, orthodox Freudian analysis is a type of psychoanalysis that is based on the classic theory of psychoanalysis put forward by Sigmund Freud. It focuses on dream analysis and free association as a way of extracting information about the patient's mental problems. The therapist will interpret the patient's dreams and help them to understand the hidden meanings behind them. Free association is a technique where patients are encouraged to say whatever comes into their mind without censorship, in order to uncover any repressed thoughts or feelings. The therapist will also look for patterns in the patient's behaviour and try to identify any defence mechanisms that they may be using.