Which major psychologist is associated with the Psychoanalytic approach?

The Psychoanalytic approach is intricately linked to Sigmund Freud, who is considered the father of this perspective. Freud introduced fundamental concepts such as the unconscious mind, the structure of personality (id, ego, and superego), and mechanisms of defense, all of which are central to understanding human behavior from this viewpoint. He emphasized the role of early childhood experiences and unconscious processes in shaping personality and behavior, distinguishing his work from other psychological approaches that focus more on observable behaviors or cognitive processes.

In contrast, the other psychologists mentioned are associated with different psychological frameworks. William James is known for his role in functionalism, focusing on how mental processes help individuals adapt to their environments. Carl Rogers is a key figure in humanistic psychology, emphasizing self-actualization and personal growth. Jean Piaget is recognized for his work in developmental psychology, particularly in understanding how children develop cognitive abilities. Each of these figures contributed significantly to psychology, but their focal points differ fundamentally from the psychoanalytic approach pioneered by Freud.