The psychosexual development of children has been a widely studied topic in psychology, highlighting among these investigations Sigmund Freud's theory on the Oedipus and Electra complexThese stages, which usually occur between the ages of 3 and 6 years of age, have been the subject of debate and study for how they influence the Identity construction, emotional management and relationship with parents.
What is the Oedipus Complex?
El Oedipus complex describes the unconscious love that a child feels for his mother and the consequent feeling of rivalry towards his father. According to Freud, this phenomenon is part of the child psychosexual development and has its origin in the phallic phase, which occurs between the 3 and 6 years of age.
Freud was inspired by Greek mythology to name this complex after the character of King Oedipus, who unwittingly killed his father and married his mother. In psychological terms, the child experiences a desire for his mother and sees the father as a obstacle or a rival which prevents monopolizing their affection.
Main features of the Oedipus complex
- Possessive attitude: The child may seek the mother's exclusive attention, interrupting interactions between her and the father.
- Expressions of love: Phrases like “Mom, I want to marry you” are common at this stage.
- Jealousy towards the father: Episodes of rejection or disobedience towards the paternal figure may occur.
This complex is a normal part of development and, if properly resolved, the child abandons competition with his father and begins to identify with him, adopting patterns of behavior and values that facilitate their psycho-emotional development.
What is the Electra Complex?
El Electra complex It is the female version of the Oedipus Complex and was coined by Carl Gustav Jung to describe the psychosexual phase in which girls develop a special affection for their father and see their mother as a rival.
This term refers to the myth of Electra, who in Greek mythology helped his brother Orestes avenge the death of their father, Agamemnon, who was killed by their mother. Jung used this story to illustrate the type of relationship rivaling that some girls establish with their mother.
Main features of the Electra Complex
- Preference for the father: The girl seeks your attention and affection more intensely.
- Imitation of the mother: He may try to copy your behavior to attract the father's affection.
- Jealousy towards the mother: Shows rejection or defiant attitudes toward the mother.
If this complex is not resolved properly, it can influence the way the girl establishes relationships in her adult life, and she may seek out a partner with characteristics similar to those of her father.
How to Overcome the Oedipus and Electra Complex
These complexes are a normal phase of child development and must be addressed with patience and understandingHere are some tips for parents:
- Do not reinforce the behavior: Avoid giving in to the child's possessive demands.
- Maintain balanced affection: Both parents must show affection for each other and for the child without excluding the other.
- Encourage identification with the same-sex parent: It is important for children to find role models in their parents.
If the fixation persists beyond the expected age or generates serious emotional conflicts, it may be advisable to go to a Child psychology specialist.
