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Psychoanalysis and sexual fantasies.
1Department of Psychiatry, Cornell University Medical College, New York, New York, USA.
Archives of Sexual Behavior
|January 11, 2000
Summary
Psychoanalysis and sex research offer complementary insights into human sexuality. This review distinguishes validated psychoanalytic concepts from those disproven by empirical sex research, emphasizing gender development.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sexology
- Psychoanalytic Theory
Background:
- Psychoanalysis, a depth psychology, historically focused on patients' sexual experiences and fantasies.
- Sex research employs empirical investigation across various disciplines.
- Both fields have significantly contributed to understanding human sexuality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review psychoanalytic theories of human sexuality.
- To differentiate between psychoanalytic ideas validated and invalidated by systematic research.
- To highlight the importance of integrating psychoanalysis and sex research.
Main Methods:
- Review of psychoanalytic literature on sexuality.
- Comparison with findings from empirical sex research.
- Analysis of revisions in psychoanalytic theory, particularly regarding female psychological development.
Main Results:
- Some psychoanalytic concepts regarding sexuality have been invalidated by empirical research.
- Other psychoanalytic ideas remain valuable contributions to understanding sexual fantasy and development.
- Significant revisions in psychoanalytic theory have occurred, especially concerning female development.
Conclusions:
- Bridging psychoanalysis and sex research is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of human sexuality.
- Empirical validation is essential for refining psychoanalytic theories.
- Further integration can advance knowledge in both psychology and sexology.