Comparing Sigmund Freud and Alfred Adler
-Similarity and differences-

Key Concept and attributes

Freud o Freud's psychoanalytic view was deterministic with little room for external influences in future decision making.

o Whereas Freud believed sexual tension was one of the basic human drives

o Freud believed instinctual forces drove humanity

o Freud thought human behavior was determined mostly by the past, and people were not free to make choices, but were compelled to react to internal and unconscious directives (Corey, 2009).

o Freud's psychoanalysis, however, was a longer-term therapeutic investment, with a focus on bringing the unconscious into consciousness. Contemporary trends in psychoanalytic therapy aim to provide successful interventions in a shorter period of time.

Alder o Adler believed the past continues to influence the choices people make throughout their lives.

o Adler believed people are motivated by social relationships. Both men, however, believed fundamental personality characteristics are born within the first six years of life (Fisher, 2001)

o Adler believed people can and do make conscious decisions.

o He believed the conscious aspect of the human mind was a powerful component in creating goals, and making choices.

o Adler's techniques intended a shorter length of therapy with a focus on a strong beneficial relationship with the therapist, definitive goals toward solving the client's contemporary issues, and an optimistic view of the client's ability to change (Corey, 2009)

Historical Development

Freud o Freud followed his own path from a deterministic view with the belief his choices were dictated by his heritage. Of interest is the fact that one of the most creative times in his life was during an acute phase of psychiatric illness during which he suffered tremendous fear, phobias, and