Karen Horney was a prominent psychoanalyst known for her development of theories on neurosis and personality. She challenged many ideas of her time, particularly those of Freud. Horney emphasized the influence of social and cultural factors on psychological development, proposing that interpersonal relationships play a significant role in mental health. Her work underscored the importance of understanding individuals within their social context, moving beyond traditional Freudian emphasis on sexual drives. Horney introduced the idea of "basic anxiety," which arises from feelings of helplessness in a hostile world. She argued that neurotic behaviors are strategies to cope with or escape from this anxiety. This perspective shifted the understanding of neurosis from a purely individual pathology to something that is also socially situated. Her theories contributed significantly to the field of psychology, particularly in understanding female psychology and neuroses. Additionally, Horney's work inspired later feminist psychoanalysis by addressing the complexities of women's experiences. She critiqued the notion of "penis envy" and suggested that societal structures create feelings of inferiority in women. Through her insights, Horney advocated for a more comprehensive understanding of psychological development that incorporates gender and cultural considerations. Karen Horney was a pioneering psychoanalyst who made significant contributions to the understanding of neurosis and personality. Her theories emphasized the importance of social and cultural factors in psychological development, challenging the patriarchal views prevalent in traditional Freudian psychoanalysis. She introduced concepts like "basic anxiety," highlighting how feelings of helplessness influence neurotic behavior. By framing neurosis as a response to both individual and societal conditions, Horney transformed the approach to psychology and foregrounded interpersonal relationships in mental health. Horney's influence extended into feminist psychoanalysis, where she questioned the traditional notions of women's psychology. By addressing societal pressures and the impact of gender, her work paved the way for more inclusive and comprehensive psychological theories.