Definition

Noun: A person who is receiving psychoanalytic treatment; the patient in a psychoanalysis.

Usage

The term is used specifically within the context of psychoanalytic therapy. It refers to the individual who engages in the process of free association, explores unconscious thoughts and feelings with an analyst, and works through psychological conflicts.

Examples

• The analysand discussed childhood memories during the session.
• A key goal for the analysand is to gain insight into unconscious motivations.
• The relationship between the analyst and the analysand is central to the therapeutic process.

Advanced Usage

• The term is almost exclusively used in professional, clinical, or academic writing about psychoanalysis.
• It distinguishes the recipient of psychoanalysis from patients in other forms of psychotherapy.

Variants and Related Words

• Analysis (n): The therapeutic process itself.
• Analyst (n): The psychoanalyst conducting the treatment.
• Psychoanalyze (v): To subject someone to psychoanalysis.

Synonyms

• Psychoanalytic patient
• Therapy client (in a psychoanalytic context)

Notes on Meaning

This word has a single, highly specific meaning within the field of psychoanalysis. It does not refer to a person who analyzes things in a general sense.

Noun

1. a person undergoing psychoanalysis