The Meaning of Anxiety

The Meaning of Anxiety

The Meaning of Anxiety is a seminal work by the American existential psychologist Rollo May. First published in 1950, the book explores the concept of anxiety from an existential perspective, delving into its causes, manifestations, and implications for human existence.

Overview

In The Meaning of Anxiety, Rollo May argues that anxiety is an inherent part of the human condition. Unlike Sigmund Freud, who viewed anxiety primarily as a symptom of repressed desires, May posits that anxiety arises from the individual's confrontation with the "givens" of existence, such as freedom, isolation, meaninglessness, and death.

Key Concepts

Existential Anxiety

Existential anxiety is a central theme in May's work. It refers to the deep-seated fear that arises when individuals face the fundamental uncertainties of life. This type of anxiety is distinguished from neurotic anxiety, which is disproportionate to the situation and often linked to unresolved psychological conflicts.

Freedom and Responsibility

May discusses the relationship between freedom and responsibility, suggesting that the awareness of one's freedom can lead to anxiety. The realization that one is responsible for their own choices and the consequences thereof can be both liberating and terrifying.

Isolation

The concept of isolation is another critical aspect of May's analysis. He explores how the awareness of one's separateness from others can lead to feelings of loneliness and anxiety. This isolation is not just physical but also existential, as individuals grapple with their unique experiences and perspectives.

Meaninglessness

May also addresses the anxiety that stems from meaninglessness. In a world where traditional sources of meaning, such as religion and community, are often questioned, individuals may struggle to find purpose and significance in their lives.

Death

The awareness of death is a profound source of existential anxiety. May argues that the inevitability of death forces individuals to confront the transient nature of existence, prompting them to seek meaning and authenticity in their lives.

Impact and Legacy

The Meaning of Anxiety has had a significant impact on the fields of psychology, psychiatry, and philosophy. It has influenced various therapeutic approaches, including existential therapy and humanistic psychology. May's work continues to be a foundational text for those exploring the psychological and philosophical dimensions of anxiety.

See Also

• Existentialism
• Humanistic psychology
• Existential therapy
• Rollo May
• Anxiety
• Neurotic anxiety
• Freedom
• Isolation
• Meaninglessness
• Death

Further Reading

• Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
• Being and Time by Martin Heidegger
• The Denial of Death by Ernest Becker