Freud’s clinical theories then and now

Abstract

In Freud’s day, his case studies, coupled with the findings of others (e.g., Breuer, Charcot), provided evidence that the Oedipus complex and his dynamic theory of repression (i.e., the unconscious interactions between id, ego, and superego) as causal agents in neurotic symptoms was suspect. With the aid of over 75 years of research since Freud’s death, today’s psychodynamic-orientated clinicians have discarded many of Freud’s tenets related to the Oedipus complex. Modern psychoanalysts have focused their attention instead on a patient’s personal relationships in their early life, their current life, and in their interactions with their therapist (transference).