1. psychoanalytic theory in which major emphasis is placed on the libido, the stages of psychosexual development, and the id instincts or drives. The prototypical theory of this kind is that of Sigmund Freud. Also called classical theory; drive theory.

2. psychoanalytic treatment that adheres to Sigmund Freud’s basic procedures, using dream interpretation, free association, and analysis of resistance, and to his basic aim of developing insight into the patient’s unconscious life as a way to restructure personality. Also called orthodox psychoanalysis.