Motivated by narcissistic and libidinal strivings in a pathological family setting, the patient developed discordant identification systems which neither fused nor modulated each other. The structure of her wished-for self image with its autonomous tendencies was based on an Older Brother fantasy with which she identified. Her submissive self image was determined by an unconscious ideal modeled on her mother. These incompatible identifications continued in conflict. Enactment of the pattern determined by the maternal ideal led to object choices which evoked masochistic behavior, recognized by the patient as destructive to her ego aims.