Who argued that psychological disorders were caused by disturbed interpersonal relationship during childhood?

Karen Horney

The correct answer is Option 3: Karen Horney

Why others are incorrect:

• Erich Fromm focused on social and existential needs.

• Alfred Adler emphasized feelings of inferiority and striving for superiority.

• Sigmund Freud believed psychological disorders stemmed from unresolved unconscious conflicts, especially related to sexual and aggressive drives.

"Karen Horney: Horney’s major contribution lies in her challenge to Freud’s treatment of women as inferior. According to her, each sex has attributes to be admired by the other, and neither sex can be viewed as superior or inferior. She countered that women were more likely to be affected by social and cultural factors than by biological factors. She argued that psychological disorders were caused by disturbed interpersonal relationship during childhood. When parents’ behaviour toward a child is indifferent, discouraging, and erratic, the child feels insecure and a feeling called basic anxiety results. Deep resentment toward parents or basic hostility occurs due to this anxiety. By showing excessive dominance or indifference, or by providing too much or too little approval, parents can generate among children feelings of isolation and helplessness which interfere with their healthy development."