The phenomenon of a split in the ego is not confined to fetishism, but is central to all neuroses. The author demonstrates this with regard to several specific neurotic types. He then goes on to show that the attempt to establish an absolute distinction between ego and id postulates an artificial split between—in fact—mutually interdependent parts. Traditional distinctions between primary and secondary process are critically examined. The id is an abstraction, while the essence and strength of the ego reside not in its defensive functions, but in the extent to which it accepts the drives; whereas the repressing ego weakens or even eliminates itself.

The child who cannot resolve psychosexual conflict uses a makeshift solution, whereby that portion of the ego engaged in the conflict is split off and ceases to participate in further development. This part, emotionally rich, may again blossom and mature in the transference.