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In scientific investigation it is often the study of the anomalous, the atypical, that points the way to the discovery of deeper truths. Those phenomena which are not readily explained by our basic theories lead us to question them, to expand or modify them, and often to add new dimensions to the fundamental structure. Masochism, whether it be expressed in the form of a sexual perversion or in a general life attitude which Freud has called 'moral masochism', and to which Reik refers as 'social masochism', is just such an atypical phenomenon. The individual who behaves masochistically seemingly contradicts the basic psychological principle that the important motivating force in human behavior is the attainment of pleasure—if not directly, at least through the achievement of equilibrium or a freedom from tension. Even if such pleasure is postponed under the ægis of the reality principle, the ultimate goal of typical normal behavior is gratification and fulfilment rather than the pain, suffering and unhappiness which are the apparent goals of the masochistic reaction.
It would seem reasonable to conclude, therefore, that in masochism the apparent goal of suffering is not the real goal, but merely a way station to it. What then is the ultimate goal, and why has the individual chosen this particular way station as a means of its realization?
According to Freud the masochistic response is the expression of the death instinct (primary masochism) and has as its aim the gratification of an unconscious need for self-punishment, arising from guilt about forbidden impulses. In sexual masochism the punishment eventuates in direct sensual satisfaction (orgasm). The pleasure principle is still served, for the sexual