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This study describes unusual variations in drive equipment in three children in terms of quantity of drive energy, innately or maturationally determined; having regard to the quantitative balance between initial libidinal and aggressive drives; and to the distribution of both energies over the libidinal zones. Distribution is also described in terms of externalization of drive energy.
Case 1 combined hyperlibidinal and hypoaggressive drive energies, Case 2 hyperaggressive and adequate libidinal drives, and Case 3 hypolibidinal and hypoaggressive energies. These variants were followed in their bearing on the cathexis of the external world as well as on ego development. In Case 1, localization of both drives in the oral zone from birth and insufficient externalization reduced the aggressive admixture in all ego functions and seriously limited aggressive discharge. In Case 2, a surplus of aggressive drive energies discharged in motility prevented sufficient focusing of the external world. In Case 3, deficient drive quantity associated with insufficient externalization delayed cathexis of the external world.
The interaction of drive endowment with maturational sequences and ego achievements was studied and significant constellations found in timing and quality of achievement. Variations in quantity, balance, and distribution of drives are assumed to have significant bearing on the colouring of infantile neurosis, character disorder, and deeper pathology.