The author returns to the notion of masochism in Freud’s work and that of psychosomaticians. The differentiation between primary erotogenic masochism and erotic masochism opening onto phantasy through the double drive reversal allows for a more precise identification of the transference. This is how the description of active anti-traumatic defences and the prematurity of the ego, close to what is currently described in terms of precocity, acquires meaning. The activity-passivity polarity disappears here in favour of activity. This is a situation that prohibits regression and the cathexis of a hallucinatory pole through the endless re-excitation of clinging to nociperceptual perceptions. The clinical treatment of a “precocious” child illustrates parental participation in this prematurity and some possible ways of elaborating it. Access to moral masochism provides a solution on the side of moral pain, and hatred an acted solution which nevertheless paves the way for differentiation and separation.