Based on the belief that the world is a hostile struggle. Individuals seek power, control, and dominance to survive and protect themselves.
Driven by an intense need for affection and approval. Individuals become submissive and over-considerate to ensure they are loved and protected.
Defined by a need for self-sufficiency and privacy. Individuals distance themselves emotionally to avoid the possibility of rejection or disappointment. Key Internal Conflicts
is a seminal book by psychoanalyst Karen Horney , originally published in 1945 . In it, Horney presents a dynamic theory of neurosis that focuses on how interpersonal and social factors—rather than just biological instincts—shape psychological struggles. Core Concepts
Horney argues that neurosis is a coping mechanism for dealing with —a feeling of being helpless and alone in a potentially hostile world, often rooted in childhood experiences. To navigate this anxiety, individuals adopt one of three "neurotic trends" or interpersonal orientations: