Psychology and Freudian Theory: An Introduction

This is a clear and accessible introduction to Freudian theory and its status in modern psychology. Paul Kline examines the evidence for and against psychoanalytic theories and shows that, far from being out of date, they can be supported by modern psychological research. He writes for the student and the non-specialist, drawing on numerous, often lighthearted, examples taken from real life and pointing to the implications of his findings for educational, clinical and industrial psychologists.

After a brief introduction to Freudian theory and its development through the work of Jung, Adler and Melanie Klein, Paul Kline describes the objections that have been raised to psychoanalytic theories and some possible answers. Important aspects of Freudian theory concerning child development, the Oedipus complex, dreaming and the nature of the unconscious are examined to see whether they can be said to be true or false, and are compared when possible with their modern psychological counterparts. The book concludes with a discussion of the broader social implications of Freudian theory and its value for those concerned with child development - parents and educators - and for those involved in mental health. Psychology and Freudian Theory will be welcomed by all those with an interest in human behaviour and by the wide spectrum of social studies students.