Some features from a case of genital exhibitionism precipitated by the unusual and yet apparently specific circumstances of sudden and total blindness in the mother have been presented. A study of this patient offers some data as to how at least one exhibitions resolves castration anxiety by having his penis seen by a woman. The sensitivity to the reaction of the woman in this instance originated in a long-standing feeding ritual with the mother who harbored bizarre ideas regarding the effects on growth as a result of her feeding. The feeding process seemed primarily a mutual bisexual identification, with nutriment as a secondary consideration. The exhibitionism was an attempt to allay anxiety at times when he was uncertain as to his identification and surprise meant that 'growth' had occurred. As the mother could not respond after she became blind, the son was compelled to seek the reaction and act out the fantasy with strangers.