Correspondence: Lawrence Josephs, Derner Institute of Advanced Psychological Studies, Adelphi University Garden City, Long Island, NY 11530. e-mail: Josephs@adelphi.edu

¹Ph.D., Professor, Derner Institute of Advanced Psychological Studies, Adelphi University, New York.

Abstract

Fatherhood may unconsciously activate repudiated identifications with patriarchal primal fathers in men with progressive social values. These men may consciously cultivate an image of themselves as rebellious nonconformists. These men may wish to raise children who are fiercely independent just like them. Yet when these rambunctious children challenge paternal authority, these men may become enraged because their unconscious identification with the primal father has been threatened. These men may be referred to treatment for problems of anger management. They tend to unconsciously re-create and enact their conflicted and enraging relationship with the primal father in their relationship with the therapist.