fei75766_ch06_179-205.indd 191  02/06/20 11:32 AM
Chapter 6    Horney: Psychoanalytic Social Theory191
Instead, theyprefer thattheirhidden greatness berecognized without anyeffort on
theirpart(Horney, 1945).
Insummary, eachofthethree neurotic trends hasananalogous setofchar-
acteristics thatdescribe normal individuals. Inaddition, eachof10neurotic needs 
canbeeasily placed within thethree neurotic trends. Table 6.1summarizes thethree 
neurotic trends, thebasic conflicts thatgiverisetothem, theoutstanding characteristics 
ofeach, the10neurotic needs thatcompose them, andthethree analogous traits that
characterize normal people.
Intrapsychic Conflicts
Theneurotic trends flowfrom basic anxiety, which inturn, stems from achild’s rela-
tionships withother people. Tothispoint, ouremphasis hasbeen onculture and
interpersonal conflict. However, Horney didnotneglect theimpact ofintrapsychic 
factors inthedevelopment ofpersonality. Ashertheory evolved, shebegan toplace TABLE 6.1
Summary of Horney’s Neurotic Trends
Basic conflict 
or source of 
neurotic trend
Neurotic needs
Normal analogTheCompliant 
Personality
Feelings of
helplessness
1.Affection and
approval
2.Powerful 
partner
3.Narrow limits 
tolife
Friendly, lovingTheDetached 
Personality
Feelings of
isolation
9.Self-sufficiency 
and
independence
10.Perfection and
prestige
Autonomous and
sereneTheAggressive 
Personality
Protection against 
hostility of
others
4.Power
5.Exploitation
6.Recognition 
and
unassailability
7.Personal 
admiration
8.Personal 
achievement
Ability tosurvive 
ina
competitive 
societyNeurotic Trends
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