This article discusses points about the concept of fantasy of Sigmund Freud, and suggests a dialogue between them and the concept of schemes proposed by Aaron Beck's cognitive therapy theory. This suggestion does not indicate any form of eclecticism, theoretical or practical, and discusses these concepts considering the differences in their assumptions. According to Freudian theory, the fantasy represents a form of subjective reading, organized from the wishes and defense mechanisms, of facts' reality. This is what Freud called psychic reality, which has its basis in childhood and the phylogenetic fantasies. Beck's theory does not make references to the notion of fantasy, however, and considers the role of subjective impressions and interpretations of events, especially those experienced in childhood. Thus, he develops the thesis that the schemes organize cognitive, affective and behavioral processes. The dialogue between these theories has been supported by studies in cognitive science.
Fantasy; Psychoanalysis; Schemes; Cognitive