When Sigmund Freud Established Psychoanalysis

Sigmund Freud’s groundbreaking work on psychoanalysis theory commenced around 1885 when he embarked on the development of a systematic approach to address the challenges faced by patients suffering from neurosis. While it’s possible that elements of psychoanalytic thought predated Freud, his contributions were pivotal in popularizing and formalizing the field. By 1885, Freud had initiated the foundations of what would become the well-recognized Freudian Psychoanalysis Theory, a turning point in the history of psychology.

Sigmund Freud’s journey into the discovery of psychoanalysis began with a series of experiments in hypnosis. It was during these experiments that Freud, in collaboration with his colleague Josef Breuer, initiated the development of a groundbreaking psychological treatment approach. This innovative method centered on encouraging patients to freely discuss a wide range of their inner experiences, encompassing memories, dreams, thoughts, and emotions. The fundamental idea behind this approach was to gather and analyze this rich reservoir of information in order to alleviate the patient’s psychological distress and gain insight into the underlying causes of their mental struggles. Through this process, Freud and Breuer laid the foundation for the revolutionary field of psychoanalysis, which would go on to profoundly influence the understanding and treatment of mental disorders.