Feminine Psychology

Feminine Psychology showcases the groundbreaking work of psychoanalyst Karen Horney, who boldly challenged several of Freud's theories on psychosexual development, particularly as they pertain to women. This volume brings together a collection of her most influential essays offering a deep and critical exploration of femininity from both clinical and cultural perspectives. Drawing extensively from her therapeutic practice, Horney rigorously examines not only Freud’s assumptions but also her own evolving theories. She addresses a wide range of topics central to female psychological experience, including frigidity, feminine masochism, maternal ambivalence, the challenges of monogamy, the neurotic need for love, and the underlying mistrust between the sexes. What sets this work apart is Horney’s insistence on analyzing psychological phenomena within their social and cultural context, rather than reducing them to biological determinism. This collection stands as a vital contribution to both feminist thought and psychoanalytic theory, marking a pivotal moment in the development of modern psychology.