Problem 11 - An Introduction to Theories of Personality

Question

A professional athlete wins his first world championship. His satisfaction lasts for only a short time, however, and he feels that he "has to" win a second championship in order to be respected. How might Horney explain the athlete's behavior?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Karen Horney would explain the athlete's behavior as a manifestation of neurotic needs, in particular, the need for achievement and admiration. Despite his initial success, the athlete's continuous urge to win indicates an underlying neurosis to constantly seek approval and respect through achievement.

Step 1: Introduce Karen Horney's Theory

Karen Horney was a renowned psychoanalyst known for her theory of neurotic needs. According to her, individuals with neurotic tendencies exhibit a compulsive drive to meet certain needs that, if not satisfied, lead to feelings of anxiety and worthlessness.

Step 2: Identify the Athlete's Behavior

In this case, the athlete, despite having won a world championship, is unable to feel content and respected. He has a sense of dissatisfaction and feels an urge to win another championship to fulfill an unmet need.

Step 3: Apply Horney's Theory to the Athlete's Behavior

Based on Horney's theory, the athlete could be showing a form of neurotic need, specifically the need for achievement and admiration. Despite his accomplishment, the athlete feels anxious and considers himself unworthy until he wins another championship, which indicates a constant chase for achievement and approval.