Question 11

Neuroticism is the result of social and interpersonal influences during childhood.

Horney’s perspective emphasizes that neuroticism arises primarily from social and interpersonal influences experienced during childhood, rather than from innate drives or genetic factors.

A) It is the result of a person’s unconscious instincts that drive their motivation.

This option is incorrect as Horney did not attribute neuroticism to unconscious instincts. Instead, she focused on how early social experiences shape personality development, contrasting with Freudian views that prioritize instinctual drives.

B) It is the result of social and interpersonal influences during adulthood.

While social influences continue to impact personality in adulthood, Horney specifically highlighted childhood experiences as crucial in forming neurotic tendencies. Therefore, this option misrepresents her stance on the origins of neuroticism.

C) It is the result of social and interpersonal influences during childhood.

This option accurately reflects Horney’s view, as she believed that early relationships and social contexts significantly contribute to the development of neuroticism. Her emphasis on childhood experiences distinguishes her theories from others that focus on innate factors.

D) It is the result of genetic predispositions and not environmental factors.

This choice is incorrect because Horney’s theory explicitly argues against the idea that neuroticism is primarily genetic. She posited that environmental factors, particularly those encountered in childhood, play a fundamental role in shaping an individual’s personality.

Conclusion

Horney's assertion that neuroticism stems from social and interpersonal influences during childhood is key to understanding her perspective on personality development. The other options fail to capture her emphasis on early experiences and suggest a more deterministic view of personality that she did not endorse. Thus, option C is the most accurate representation of her theory.