Psychoanalysis, this fascinating discipline, sees two emblematic figures confront each other: Sigmund Freud And Jacques Lacan. One, a pioneer of the movement, laid the foundations of the “ unconscious » as we know it. The other, taking over, revisited and reinterpreted these fundamental ideas by anchoring them in a more contemporary context.
The differences between these two trends are not simply limited to terms. Indeed, the report that everyone maintains with the symptom, there speech, and the analysis relationship reveals distinct horizons. If Freud focuses on the mechanism of the repression within the framework of a psyche in conflict, Lacan, for his part, explores the structure language and know unconscious, which takes on a completely different meaning.
Each of these approaches invites us to rethink the “ self-analysis » and the therapeutic work. While the Freudian favors the “ interpretation » dreams and transfers, the Lacanian offers attentive listening to the signifiers and work on the subjectivity. These nuances, although subtle, cement practices which, at first glance, seem similar, but which, deep down, diverge profoundly.
What are the fundamental differences between Freud and Lacan in psychoanalysis?
Psychoanalysis, a discipline rich in concepts and theories, has been shaped by emblematic figures such as Sigmund Freud And Jacques Lacan. Although Lacan often claimed to be Freud, their approach differs on several crucial points. Freud is considered theinventor of psychoanalysis, while Lacan returned to the latter’s work to reinterpret and develop some of his ideas.
The differences mainly manifest themselves in the understanding of functioning of the unconscious and therapeutic methods. Lacan introduced concepts such as the “real” or the “symbolic”, which enrich the Freudian model. This distinction shows how each of the pedagogues sought to exploit the implications of the unconscious for different purposes.
How do Freud and Lacan define the unconscious?
For Freud, the unconscious is a reservoir of repressed desires that influence human behavior. Dreams, slips of the tongue, and failed actions There are revealing clues. On the other hand, Lacan reinvents this idea by claiming that the unconscious is structured like a language. According to him, words and signifiers play a crucial role in the formation of the unconscious.
This vision opens the way to considerations of how a Lacanian analysis interprets the symptoms differently from the Freudian method. Lacan therefore insists on the dimension of the Other, which represents an instance external to the individual where meanings are found. This theoretical adjustment inevitably leads to changes in clinical practice.
What are the distinct therapeutic approaches?
Freudian and Lacanian techniques, although sharing a common objective of reducing psychological suffering, differ notably. In a Freudian session, the therapist adopts a posture of attentive listening and silence, allowing the patient to freely express his thoughts according to the principle of free association.
- The Freudian therapist favors the analysis of dreams and repressed desires.
- In Lacanian analysis, the therapist engages more actively in the process, using enlightening interventions.
- The sequence of sessions varies, as does the price, often between 40 and 120 euros.
What are the aspects of sexuality according to Freud and Lacan?
Freud views sexuality as the primary driver of human behavior, addressing themes such as Oedipus complex. His vision revolves around sexual impulses and their preponderant role in psychological conflicts.
In contrast, Lacan broadens this perspective by integrating symbolic dimensions. Sexuality, in its analysis, becomes a field of exploration ofOther and shortages which arise from it. This gap between drive and symbolization offers a more complex reading of the relationship between sexuality and desire.
Why is the relationship with language crucial for Lacan?
Lacan attaches major importance to language, considering it as the vector of the unconscious. Although Freud also recognized the meaning of words, he did not integrate it as centrally. Lacan states that “the unconscious is structured like a language”, which implies that the patient’s story could reveal much more than repressed thoughts.
- Language is seen as the means of translating desires and the concerns.
- The movements of the language in an analysis context make it possible to identify naming of suffering.
- The deconstruction of language is essential to thwart the defense mechanisms.
What are the concepts of anxiety and neurosis in these two thinkers?
For Freud, anxiety is often linked to internal conflicts that cannot be resolved. Adequate treatment aims to explore these conflicts to alleviate suffering.
On the other hand, Lacan will consider anxiety not so much as a emotional reaction, but as an event structural of language. Neurosis, in Lacan, can be understood as a lack of signifier, thus making visible the fundamental instabilities of the human being in the face of its reality.
Comparison between Freud and Lacan in psychoanalysis
| Axis of comparison | Freud | Lacan |
| Concept of the unconscious | Unconscious as a reservoir of repressed drives and memories | Unconscious structured as a language, centered on the symbolic |
| Therapeutic method | Free association to explore the unconscious | Use of words, signifiers and language games |
| Interpretation of dreams | Tool for accessing the unconscious through repressed desires | Tool for understanding the structure of language and desire |
| Object of desire | Libido as the fundamental driving force of desire | Objet petit a, object of desire always missing |
| Position of the analyst | Role of guide and authority in the analytical process | Position of “knot” that questions and provokes the analysand |
| Representation of the subject | Unified subject, centered on psychosexual development | Fragmented subject, traversed by language and desire |
| Therapeutic intervention | Analyzing unconscious conflicts | Deciphering the dynamics of transference and language |
| Analytical ethics | Individual-centered care and his desires | Ethics of symptoms and desire as a driving force |
The differences between Freud and Lacan in psychoanalysis are notable and are manifested at various levels of their theories. First of all, Freud is considered the pioneer of psychoanalysis, laying the foundations of a method of analysis of defense mechanisms and the unconscious. His approach focuses on sexuality and the stages of development, emphasizing the importance of childhood traumas.
In contrast, Lacan proposes a reformulation of Freudian ideas, emphasizing the symbolic dimension of language and the signifier. His concept of repression and his interpretation of the relationship between language and the unconscious open new perspectives. In addition, Lacan emphasizes the role of the analysand in the therapeutic process, emphasizing the importance of active listening and the intersubjective relationship.
Finally, although both figures share common goals, namely reducing suffering and promote self-understanding, their paths diverge. Freud and Lacan represent distinct currents within psychoanalysis, each with their own vision of therapeutic work and the human nature. Practitioners choose their approach according to their understanding and their clinical experience, thus creating a rich array of psychoanalytic thoughts.
FAQ on the differences between Freud and Lacan in psychoanalysis
Freud is considered the inventor of psychoanalysis. His theories, particularly on the unconscious and defense mechanisms, established the foundations of this field. The majority of later psychoanalysts are based on his principles.
The Lacanian method, although referring to Freud, is distinguished by its reinterpretation of the unconscious. Lacan introduces concepts such as mirror stage and the structure of language, thus bringing a more linguistic dimension to psychoanalysis.
Although Lacan criticized certain aspects of Freudian theories, he did not position himself in direct opposition. On the contrary, he often speaks of a return to Freud, while adding his own perspective on the unconscious and desire.
In clinical practice, Freudian psychoanalysis emphasizes the and the analysis of dreams, while Lacanian psychoanalysis favors the use of language and the structure of speeches during the sessions.
