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In discussing resolution of the oedipal conflict, this author notes that even in the best situations, the oedipal child is confronted with “helplessness in a context of unequal power” (p. 162). Thus, differences in “age, size, gender, or any quality whatever” can lead to “feelings of exploitation and injustice” (p. 174), “insatiable hatred,” and a “desire for revenge” (p. 162).
The author argues that the classical model of oedipal resolution via identification does not eliminate the child's lingering grievance at this “unfair” situation, and is thus more compromise than resolution. He proposes an additional oedipal model in which the child faces helplessness, hatred, and desire for revenge toward both parents. Experiencing these feelings leads to “remorse, guilt, and despair” (p. 166), as well as to attempts at reparation, all promoting psychic growth.
The fundamental problem behind the oedipal crisis, according to Steiner, may be a primal envy of the mother's femininity. This envy may be expressed and defended against by oedipal rivalries. The author provides clinical material in support of his arguments.