The Theory of Neurosis is a psychoanalytic idea developed in the early 20th century by Sigmund Freud Freud proposed that a person’s mental health and overall personality development is shaped by their early experiences, and that unresolved psychological stresses can lead to the development of neuroses. Neuroses are psychological disorders characterized by symptoms such as anxiety, fear, guilt, depression, and obsessive-compulsive behaviours.
The Theory of Neurosis suggests that a range of psychological difficulties can arise due to unconscious conflicts between the id, ego, and superego. These conflicts can be caused by experiences of repression, denial, envy, anger, and other forms of emotional distress. This theory emphasizes the importance of resolving these conflicts in order to prevent the development of psychological disorders.
The Five Best Examples of the Theory of Neurosis:
1. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): OCD is a disorder characterized by intrusive, repetitive thoughts and behaviours that the person feels compelled to perform in order to relieve anxiety. It is believed that OCD is caused by unresolved conflicts between the individual’s unconscious desires and the demands of their superego. For example, a person may be affected by the unconscious fear that something bad will happen if they do not perform certain rituals or tasks.
2. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): GAD is a disorder characterized by intense and persistent worrying, fear, and anxiety. Freud proposed that this disorder is caused by the inhibition of an unconscious impulse due to a conflict between the individual’s id and superego. For example, an individual may feel an intense fear of abandonment and a need to please others in order to be accepted.
3. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): PTSD is a disorder that can develop after a person experiences a traumatic event such as an accident or combat. The Theory of Neurosis suggests that this disorder is caused by unresolved conflicts between the individual’s conscious mind and their unconscious desires or memories. For example, a person who experienced a traumatic event may develop PTSD due to unresolved emotions of guilt, fear, or anger about their experience.
4. Panic Disorder: Panic disorder is a disorder characterized by sudden, intense feelings of fear and panic. Freud proposed that this disorder is caused by unresolved conflicts between the individual’s conscious mind and their unconscious desires or memories. For example, a person may experience panic attacks due to unresolved feelings of guilt or fear about an event in their past.
5. Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): SAD is a disorder characterized by intense feelings of anxiety in social situations. The Theory of Neurosis suggests that this disorder is caused by unresolved conflicts between the individual’s conscious and unconscious desires or memories. For example, a person may experience intense anxiety in social situations due to unconscious feelings of insecurity or fear of being judged.