The evolution of a relational perspective has done much to change psychoanalytic thinking about the processes of mutual influence in human relating, including that between parent and child, patient and analyst. Beginning with excerpts from Oxenhandler's recent book, The Eros of Parenthood, this panel explores the dynamics of sexual experiencing and sexual influence between parents and children and, in parallel fashion, between analysts and patients. The discussion addresses the ways in which the emergence and handling of powerful sexual forces can be developmentally affirming or, depending on the ways they are managed, violating, both in the family and in treatment.