Unraveling Freud’s Theory of Anxiety: Insights on Objective, Neurotic, and Moral Anxiety and the Role of Psychoanalytic Therapy

Anxiety (Freud)

A state of tension which motivates us to do something.It results from a conflict between the Id, Ego, and Super Ego.

Freud was a famous psychoanalyst who theorized that anxiety arises from unconscious conflicts between the id, ego, and superego. According to his theory, anxiety is a normal and common part of the human experience. Freud believed that there are three types of anxiety: objective anxiety, neurotic anxiety, and moral anxiety.

Objective anxiety is a response to a real and external threat, such as a car accident or a natural disaster. This type of anxiety is considered healthy because it is a normal response to danger.

Neurotic anxiety arises from unconscious conflicts between the id and ego. For example, a person may fear expressing their desires because they believe they will be punished. This type of anxiety is often irrational and exaggerated.

Moral anxiety arises from ongoing conflicts with the superego and results from a fear of punishment for violating moral standards. For example, a person may feel guilty for lying to their partner and may experience moral anxiety as a result.

Freud believed that anxiety could be resolved through psychoanalytic therapy, which involved uncovering and working through the unconscious conflicts that were causing the anxiety. This therapy often involved exploring the patient’s childhood experiences and relationships with important figures in their life.

Overall, Freud’s theory of anxiety emphasizes the importance of understanding the unconscious conflicts that contribute to anxiety and the role of psychoanalytic therapy in resolving these conflicts.

More Answers: