Post-Oedipal Psychodynamics

In a previous paper (1) I formulated a hypothesis, which I hereby review, in an attempt to fill in some gaps within the framework of present psychoanalytic theory. The present thesis is a continuation of that work, aimed at a correlation of post-oedipal development with pre-oedipal psychodynamics.

The Oedipus complex as theoretically known today retains its validity but fails to enlighten us in certain areas of psychopathology that Freud left unanswered. It was formulated at a time when the patriarchal family structure made the father the primary source of authority. Recent sociological trends have brought the woman into a better and more adequate perspective and at the same time have surfaced certain dynamic operations that were not as evident when the body of psychoanalytic theory was evolved.

It appears that the Oedipus complex as formulated maintained its theoretical validity as long as the woman's natural aggressiveness was kept in check by cultural patterns that forced a passive submissive attitude with masochistic surrender to the man. His usurpation of her authority clouded many issues that our present societal structure brings into clearer focus. Today we clinically see as much castration fear expressed by a male in reference to the mother as to the father; therefore, our interpretation in theoretical terms is in need of revision.

Cultural patterns can, in effect, act as obsessive systems keeping certain instinctual trends under repression while others are allowed to come forth. In American society, the “liberation” of women has made obvious certain innate character traits that were concealed under more oppressive conditions that advocated the supremacy of the male. The release of the bound aggressiveness that was previously internalized in a masochistic submissive attitude has changed not only the social character of marriage but the interpersonal relationships within the family too.

It is my impression that this sociological shift has brought to the surface c