Freud also wanted to be a scientist

Abstract

In this article, I consider psychoanalysis from the point of view of academic psychology and academic psychology from the point of view of psychoanalysis. I attempt to maintain a balanced, critical and empathetic position of both standpoints. Some explanation will be given for the traditional conflict between psychoanalysis and academic psychology: or in other words, the academic psychology «positivist model» vs the psychoanalyst’s insistence on an exclusively clinical context for research and therapeutic practice. I look at the restrictive nature of both extremes and make suggestions for a revision of the position of the present and future posture of psychoanalysis, while at the same time pointing out how psychology could benefit from psychoanalysis.