The evolution of the self-psychological approach to depression

Article Abstract:

Depression has been recognized as a distinct psychological entity at least since the time of Hippocrates, but it is only since Freud that theories regarding its origin and treatment have attempted to address the underlying psychological structures. The major theories regarding the cause of depression are reviewed, starting with Freud's hypothesis concerning the link between previous events and current symptoms. Modifications to Freud's earliest notions acknowledged the aggressive aspect of depression, such that Freud himself came to view depression as the result of rage concerning personal loss that was then directed inward, against the ego. In contrast to the view that the primary cause of depression is rage, Kohut proposed the self-psychological view that the rage associated with depression is more a consequence of frustration felt by the patient at his inability to successfully reestablish a positive self-image. Thus, where classical analysis focuses upon provoking rage in order to bring the experience into consciousness, the self-psychological approach attempts to help the patient achieve a state of inner connectedness and thereby ward off rage. Recent developments in self-psychological theory focus upon the role of interaction in expanding one's self-representation, understanding the importance of the reestablishment of broken attachments, and renewal of thwarted pursuits in the development of a cohesive sense of self. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Causes of, Depression, Mental, Depression (Mood disorder), Self psychology, Self psychology (Psychoanalytic theory)

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Silviano Arieti: anti-psychoanalytic cultural forces in the development of western civilization

Article Abstract:

Silvano Arieti emphasized the detrimental influence of Greek rationalism in the development of psychoanalysis. The political and social instability that prevailed in the post-World War I era led to the development of psychoanalysis. Evaluation of the traditional codes of morality that governed human behavior contributed to the acceptance of Freudian doctrines. Furthermore, technological and biological discoveries or developments also contributed to the analysis of the emotional factors that affect man's survival.

Research, Psychology, Applied, Applied psychology

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Anti-psychoanalytic cultural forces in the development of western civilization

Article Abstract:

The emergence of psychoanalysis during the early 19th century was hampered by the prevalence of anti-psychoanalytic theories that were influential in western countries. The Greek philosophers utilized forms of psychoanalysis such as hypnosis and dream interpretations in their studies on human nature. However, the influence of the anti-psychoanalytic concepts of Descartes and Greek rationalism in western thought prevented the development of psychoanalysis.

Psychoanalysts

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