Topic > Neo-Freudian psychologists: Karen Horney - 1886

Neo-Freudian psychologists were people who were heavily influenced by Freud in their theories. These psychologists studied Freud's theories in depth and later came to somewhat reject his views. They adapted parts of his theories, but changed some aspects of his views to fit their personal beliefs and studies. Karen Horney was one of the most popular neo-Freudians of her time and still remains one of the most famous in history. His theories challenged some traditional Freudian views. This fact was especially true of his theories on sexuality and the instinctive orientation of psychoanalysis. Horney is also credited with founding feminist psychology in response to Freud's theory of penis envy. He disagreed with Freud about the inherent differences in the psychology of men and women, and traced these differences to society and culture rather than to the specific biology of men and women. Basically, he stated that psychological differences arose from their surroundings and not from their genetic makeup. Friends, family and acquaintances along with the lives they grew up in influenced their psychology. Every human being has a different psychology in some way. Freud argued that the psychology of men and women differed due to their biological "constitution", but Horney believed more in the effect of the environment and people around the individual than the effect of the psychological state. Men might share similar psychological mindsets with other men, but not simply because they are men. Horney argued that the similarities were due to their similar families and lifestyles. Karen Horney was an influential neo-Freudian and her theories would pass the test... middle of paper... to become one of the biggest names in the world of psychology and develop the neo-Freudian principle that is still pioneered in the world of psychology. Leaving a legacy is something that many people want to do, but only a few can do. Karen Horney, with her brilliant psychological mind, has managed to do this as her legacy has stood the test of time. His theories are still used today along with the principles he had implemented in his theories. She is a role model for many young psychologists around the world as she was probably the first influential female psychologist. His legacy continues today through the world of psychology. Works Cited http://www2.webster.edu/~woolflm/horney.html http://www.muskingum.edu/~psych/psycweb/history/horney.htm http: //psychology.about.com/od/ profilesofmajorthinkers/p/bio_karenhorney.htmhttp://webspace.ship.edu/cgboer/horney.html