The Psychology of Women: A Psychoanalytic Review*

Abstract

Freud's psychoanalytic views of female development emphasized the importance of penis envy and the Oedipus complex. Resolution of the Oedipus complex resulted in a “neurotic” solution, a “masculinity complex ” or a normal feminine attitude involving acceptance of anatomic inferiority, passivity, masochism and narcissism. Modern psychoanalytic views have rejected or reformulated many of these theories. Penis envy is seen as a normal phase of development which is resolved in most women. Women have been found to develop strong, albeit different, super ego structures. The female character triad has been questioned and the role of environmental factors emphasized. Efforts continue to develop a comprehensive well-integrated view of female psychology.