Who proposed the idea that depression is anger turned inward?

The concept that depression is anger turned inward is attributed to Sigmund Freud. Freud's psychoanalytic theory posits that emotional conflicts can manifest as psychological disorders, and he suggested that individuals may redirect internalized anger towards themselves, leading to feelings of worthlessness and depression. This idea is a part of Freud's broader understanding of how unconscious processes influence behavior and mental states.

Freud's exploration of this dynamic laid the foundation for understanding depression not just as a mood disorder, but as a complex interplay of emotions, including repressed anger. This perspective has had a lasting impact on the field of psychology, influencing various therapeutic approaches that address internal conflicts and emotional expression.

The other theorists mentioned have different focuses in their respective psychological theories—Carl Rogers is known for humanistic psychology and the importance of self-actualization, Albert Ellis is known for Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy which focuses on beliefs and thoughts, and B.F. Skinner is recognized for his work in behaviorism and operant conditioning. These differing theoretical orientations do not specifically frame depression as anger directed at oneself. Thus, Freud's insight into the inward transformation of anger into depressive symptoms is what makes his contribution particularly relevant in this context.