Ödipuskomplexet

Ödipuskomplexet, often translated as the Oedipus complex, is a term coined by Sigmund Freud to describe a child's unconscious desire for the parent of the opposite sex and a sense of rivalry with the parent of the same sex. This concept is a central tenet of Freudian psychoanalytic theory, particularly in the psychosexual stages of development.

Freud proposed that during the phallic stage, typically between the ages of three and six, a boy experiences these feelings towards his mother. He is believed to view his father as a rival for his mother's affection and attention, and this can lead to feelings of anxiety and fear, including a fear of castration by the father. To resolve this conflict, the boy is said to identify with his father, internalizing his values and behaviors, which helps to suppress his desires and reduce anxiety.

For girls, Freud described a parallel concept known as the Electra complex, although this term was introduced by Carl Jung. In this scenario, a girl is believed to develop feelings for her father and experience rivalry with her mother. The resolution for girls is also thought to involve identification with the mother.

While influential, the Oedipus complex and its related concepts have been subject to significant criticism and debate within psychology. Many contemporary psychologists view these ideas as largely unscientific and culturally specific, lacking empirical evidence and reflecting patriarchal biases of Freud's era. Alternative developmental theories have largely superseded Freudian psychosexual stages in mainstream psychological thought.