Final answer:
Freud's psychodynamic theory has been influential but attracted criticism for lacking empirical support and being overly focused on sexuality. Neo-Freudians adapted his theories to place more emphasis on social and cultural factors. Freud's contributions remain significant, especially his identification of the unconscious mind's role in behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sigmund Freud's theory of psychoanalysis was monumental in establishing the importance of the unconscious mind. Freud's psychodynamic perspective, which includes dream analysis and the structures of the id, ego, and superego, was the first comprehensive theory of personality and remains influential despite attracting numerous criticisms. Freud was known to be resistant to criticism, often holding steadfast to his theories.
Despite contemporary disagreements with many of Freud's specific ideas, the broad strokes of his theories still resonate. Insights such as the impact of early childhood experiences, the existence of unconscious motivations, and the complexity of the human mind were groundbreaking at the time and continue to inform current psychology in some respects.