Aspects of Primary and Secondary Genital Feelings and Anxieties in Girls During the Preoedipal and Early Oedipal Phases

Abstract

The author examines the development of the girl's psychosexual feminine self-image during the preoedipal and early oedipal phases, as well as the accompanying primary and secondary genital feelings and anxieties. The connection between the little girl's discovery and pleasure in self-exploration and masturbation and related anxieties about being "closed-up" is discussed. The nature of the corresponding object relationships is elucidated, especially the narcissistic significance of being like mother.