Discussion of “The Psychodynamics of Aggression in Women”

Dr. Symonds’ interesting paper stimulates thought in many directions. We could consider the differences between aggression and healthy assertion and the differences between the culturally defined roles of masculine and feminine. The characteristics of the neurotically dependent personality can be elaborated. The question arises of the functions of aggression in our society and throughout history. The future development and position of women in our society remains a large question.

I recently brought up some of these questions with several people, and, it seemed to me, the reactions and responses indicated the degree of personal conflict each one had concerning the subject of aggression and the subject of the psychodynamics of women. Dr. Alexandra Symonds recently gave a lecture on the neurotically dependent personality and feminine psychology to a class of fairly experienced psychotherapists. During the almost explosive discussion, the class became divided between the men and the women, and emotions ran high as each student's conflicts were aroused. I am aware that my own responses stem from my own conflicts about these matters, as well as from any “objective” thinking I have done.

Within our current atmosphere of the struggle for equal rights for women and the post-Watergate demand for openness and honesty, both men and women are being encouraged to be more assertive of their personal rights. Books are written on how to be assertive, groups are being formed for both men and women to add the encouragement of group identification and support to an individual's efforts to be more assertive. These efforts are worthwhile and to be encouraged. I believe, however, that a severely self-effacing or resigned individual could probably be more assertive only to a limited degree and only in a safe and accepting milieu, unless there is a major change of basic personality.

In the area of aggression — that is, making another individual do what we want by the threat of force, producin