Sigmund Freud’s Little Hans Study

Flashcards covering key concepts, hypotheses, and findings from Freud's Little Hans study.

What was the aim of Freud’s Little Hans study?

To provide evidence for Freud’s psychoanalytic theory, particularly the Oedipus complex, and understand the development of a phobia in a five-year-old boy.

What hypothesis did Freud propose regarding Little Hans' phobia of horses?

Little Hans’ phobia was related to his Oedipal desires and an unconscious fear of his father.

What type of study design was used in the Little Hans case?

A longitudinal case study over two years.

Who was the participant in Freud's Little Hans study?

Little Hans, a 5-year-old boy from Vienna.

How was data collected for the Little Hans study?

Data was collected through letters and interviews between Hans' father and Freud.

What key finding did Freud make regarding Little Hans' fear of horses?

The fear of horses was interpreted as a displaced fear of his father, stemming from castration anxiety.

What did Little Hans express regarding his Oedipal desires?

He expressed a strong attachment to his mother and desires to replace his father.

What did Little Hans dream about that related to his Oedipal wishes?

He described a dream where he married his mother and had children.

How did Freud interpret Hans' dream about the plumber?

As Hans identifying with his father and resolving castration anxiety.

What resolution occurred regarding Little Hans' phobia?

Hans’ phobia subsided through discussions and identifying with his father.

What is a noted strength of the Little Hans study?

It provided rich qualitative data and detailed insights into Hans’ thoughts and behaviors.

What ethical concerns are associated with the Little Hans study?

Questions about informed consent and potential psychological harm to the child.

What alternative explanation is there for Little Hans' phobia?

Critics argue it could be explained through classical conditioning.

What theoretical contributions were made by Freud’s study?

Supported Freud’s theories of psychosexual development and the unconscious mind.

What is a significant application of the Little Hans study in psychology?

It demonstrated the importance of uncovering unconscious conflicts in psychoanalytic therapy.

Why is Freud’s study of Little Hans considered a landmark in psychology?

It offers deep insights into the unconscious mind and childhood development, impacting psychoanalysis.