The father of psychoanalysis is Sigmund Freud, an Austrian neurologist who founded this groundbreaking psychological approach in the late 19th century. Freud's theories focused on the unconscious mind, the importance of childhood experiences, and the role of dreams in understanding oneself. He introduced concepts such as the id, ego, and superego, which describe different aspects of human personality. His work laid the groundwork for various therapeutic techniques, including free association and dream analysis. While many of Freud's ideas have been challenged or revised over time, his influence on psychology and mental health remains profoundly significant.