In this paper the role of a struggle for dominance in the resolution of the Oedipus Complex is discussed. It is suggested that the classical resolution described by Freud gives rise to a psychic retreat dominated by resentment and a wish for revenge Alongside this, a depressive outcome also exists in which the child is—in phantasy—initially dominant. At first this leads to a triumph over the father with the blessing of the mother, but as the child recognizes that he has in phantasy destroyed both parents, it turns to despair and guilt. If the child in his development, and the patient in his analysis, can get support to tolerate this guilt, it can be used to initiate a move toward remorse and reparation.

Obstacles to this type of resolution are discussed in relation to clinical material. It is suggested that some of the struggle has to do with the individual's need to contain the destructiveness, which is associated with envy and with what Freud described as the repudiation of femininity.