Freudian Slip

Definition

A Freudian slip refers to an error in speech, memory, or action that is believed to reveal a subconscious thought, desire, or feeling that the person has not consciously intended to express. The concept was introduced by Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, who suggested that such slips occur because they are involuntary expressions of the unconscious mind.

Example

You are at work and you're talking to your boss about a project. In the middle of the conversation, you accidentally refer to your boss as "Mom" instead of their proper title, like "Mr. Smith." This slip could indicate that, on some subconscious level, you associate your boss with a parental figure, even though you don't consciously realize it.

Why It Matters

Freudian slips matter because they provide insight into the unconscious mind and its influence on behavior. By analyzing these slips, psychologists can uncover hidden thoughts, fears, or desires that shape our actions. This concept highlights how much of human behavior is influenced by factors we are not fully aware of, emphasizing the importance of understanding both conscious and unconscious processes in psychology.