Definition

Noun: A system of psychological thought and therapeutic practice developed by Carl Gustav Jung, emphasizing the collective unconscious, archetypes, psychological complexes, and the process of individuation.

Usage

Jungian psychology is used as a proper noun to refer specifically to the school of psychology founded by Carl Jung. It is often contrasted with Freudian psychoanalysis. - The therapist specializes in Jungian psychology and often discusses archetypes like the Shadow. - His approach to dream analysis is deeply influenced by Jungian psychology. - Jungian psychology places great importance on symbols found across different cultures.

Advanced Usage

• Analytical Psychology: This is the formal name for Jungian psychology. The terms are often used interchangeably.
  • Analytical Psychology, or Jungian psychology, offers a unique perspective on the human psyche.
• Used attributively (as an adjective) to describe concepts, techniques, or practitioners related to this system.
  • She had a Jungian analysis for several years.
  • This is a classic Jungian interpretation of the myth.

Variants and Related Words

• Jungian (adjective): Of or relating to Carl Jung or his psychological system.
  • Jungian archetypes; a Jungian analyst.
• Analytical Psychology (noun): The synonymous formal term for Jungian psychology.
• Jungian analysis (noun): The therapeutic practice based on Jungian psychology.

Key Concepts (Explained in Simple Terms)

• Collective Unconscious: A level of the unconscious mind shared by all humans, containing universal memories and ideas called archetypes.
• Archetypes: Innate, universal models of people, behaviors, or personalities (e.g., the Hero, the Mother, the Trickster).
• Individuation: The lifelong process of integrating the conscious and unconscious parts of the psyche to become a whole, individual self.
• Persona: The social mask or role one presents to the world.
• Shadow: The unconscious part of the personality containing repressed weaknesses and instincts.

Synonyms

• Analytical Psychology (the most direct synonym)
• Jungian analysis (specifically refers to the therapeutic practice)
• Jungianism (less common, refers to the doctrines or beliefs)

Contrast with Related Terms

• Freudian psychology: The psychological theories of Sigmund Freud, which focus more on sexual drives, the unconscious, and childhood experiences.
• Cognitive psychology: A modern branch of psychology focusing on mental processes like thinking, memory, and perception.

Noun

1. the psychological theories of Carl Jung