The study of the human mind has been one of the most fascinating fields of science. Two of the most recognized currents in the field of psychology are psychoanalysis and analytical psychology. Although both share the exploration of the human psyche, they present significant differences in their therapeutic approaches and techniques. In this article, we will explore the 8 fundamental differences between psychoanalysis and analytical psychology.
1. Origins and Theoretical Foundations
Psychoanalysis, developed by Sigmund Freud, is based on the theory that unconscious conflicts and childhood experiences shape personality and behavior. Freud focused his focus on the importance of sexuality in psychological development and on the existence of defense mechanisms that protect the individual from painful emotions.
On the other hand, analytical psychology, created by Carl Gustav Jung , focuses on the exploration of the collective unconscious and the universal archetypes that influence the individual. Jung diverges from Freud by including spiritual and transcendental aspects in his theory, advocating the search for individuation and integration of the different parts of the psyche.
2. Concept of the Unconscious
Psychoanalysis:
For Freud, the unconscious is composed of repressed desires, childhood traumas and unresolved conflicts. Psychoanalytic therapy focuses on making these unconscious contents conscious through free association, dream interpretation and transference.
Analytical Psychology:
Jung conceives the unconscious as a layer deeper than the personal, encompassing universal and symbolic elements. For analytical psychology, the unconscious contains the personal self, the collective self and archetypes that guide the psychological development of the individual.
3. Role of the Therapist
Psychoanalysis:
In psychoanalysis, the therapist adopts a more neutral and distant stance, acting as a "blank canvas" on which the patient projects his or her thoughts. emotions and transfers. The analysis focuses on the therapeutic relationship and the interpretation of unconscious conflicts.
Analytical Psychology:
In analytical psychology, the therapist participates more actively in the therapeutic process , encouraging the exploration of archetypes and the development of consciousness. The importance of the therapeutic relationship is emphasized as a path towards individuation and psychological integration.
4. Therapeutic Approach
Psychoanalysis:
Psychoanalysis focuses on the resolution of internal conflicts through the analysis of the past, the reinterpretation of traumatic experiences and the revelation of unconscious processes. The duration of treatment can be prolonged and focused on the deep exploration of the patient's psyche.
Analytical Psychology:
Analytical psychology seeks the integration of the various aspects of the psyche through through the development of consciousness and the exploration of symbols and archetypes. The balance between the conscious personality and unconscious forces is promoted, favoring self-realization and psychological integration.
5. Interpretation of Dreams
Psychoanalysis:
Freud considered dreams as the "royal route" to the unconscious, reflecting repressed desires and internal conflicts. In psychoanalysis, great importance is given to the interpretation of dreams as a means of accessing the patient's unconscious contents.
Analytical Psychology:
Jung also valued the interpretation of dreams , but he saw them as symbolic expressions of the psyche in search of balance. In analytical psychology, dreams are seen as messages from the unconscious that guide the individual in their process of individuation and self-knowledge.
6. Concept of Symbols
Psychoanalysis:
In psychoanalysis, symbols are interpreted in relation to the patient's personal history, searching for latent meanings that reveal conflicts and unconscious desires. Symbols are seen as coded representations of the individual psyche.
Analytical Psychology:
For Jung, symbols have a universal and collective character, reflecting archetypes present in the collective unconscious of the humanity. The interpretation of symbols in analytical psychology seeks to connect the individual with these deep and transcendental structures.
7. Concept of Complexity
Psychoanalysis:
Psychoanalysis focuses on the resolution of internal conflicts and the reconstruction of the patient's personal history. Psychological complexity is addressed through the interpretation of unconscious processes and the revelation of hidden motives that guide behavior.
Analytical Psychology:
Analytical psychology considers psychological complexity as an inherent part of the individual, emphasizing the integration of opposites and the reconciliation of contradictory aspects of the psyche. Acceptance of internal multiplicity and balance between different psychological forces is promoted.
8. Treatment Objectives
Psychoanalysis:
In psychoanalysis, the objective of treatment is the resolution of internal conflicts, the overcoming of past traumas and the revelation of unconscious processes that affect the patient. . It seeks understanding and acceptance of the hidden motives that guide behavior.
Analytical Psychology:
Analytical psychology pursues individuation, that is, the process of integration and realization of the human being as a whole. Through the development of consciousness and the exploration of archetypes, balance is sought between the conscious personality and unconscious forces, promoting self-realization and psychological harmony.
In conclusion, both psychoanalysis and Analytical psychology represents deep and complex approaches to understanding the human psyche. While psychoanalysis focuses on the exploration of unconscious conflicts and the reinterpretation of the past, analytical psychology expands this perspective by including universal and spiritual aspects in its theory. Both currents provide valuable tools for self-knowledge and personal development, each with its own approach and specific methodology.