psychoanalysis

UK: ˌsaɪ.kəʊ.əˈnæl.ə.sɪs | US: ˌsaɪ.koʊ.əˈnæl.ə.sɪs

Definition

  1. n. a therapeutic method for treating mental disorders by investigating unconscious thoughts and emotions

  2. n. the theoretical framework of psychology developed by Sigmund Freud, emphasizing unconscious motivations

Structure
psycho <mind, from Greek *psyche*>analysis <examination, from Greek *analysis*>
Etymology

The term combines Greek psyche (ψυχή, "soul" or "mind") and analysis (ἀνάλυσις, "breaking down"). Coined in the late 19th century, it reflects Freud’s approach to "dissecting" the unconscious mind. The prefix psycho- retains its Greek meaning of mental processes, while -analysis denotes systematic study, preserving the original spelling and logic of decomposition.

Examples

  1. Freud pioneered psychoanalysis to explore repressed childhood memories.

  2. Modern psychoanalysis often integrates cognitive behavioral techniques.

  3. Her dissertation critically evaluated the limitations of classical psychoanalysis.

  4. The therapist specializes in Jungian psychoanalysis.

  5. Critics argue that psychoanalysis lacks empirical validation.