THE FATHER COMPLEX

Abstract

In comparing the first five cases we note in all a poor family background in which neurotic tendencies and intemperance figure prominently. In Case I, the father was sent to prison for some moral offence and the sister is physically stunted and nervous. Case II, the father, paternal aunt and brother were very nervous. Case III shows the father possibly syphilitic, forgetful at 54 and mother fussy and nervous. In Case IV the father had an attack of depression from which he recovered; one paternal uncle, maternal grandfather, one maternal uncle and maternal cousin were intemperate. Case V. Father very intemperate and immoral; mother weak, lacking in stamina. The social status varies from poor to welll-to-do but on the whole is of a fair average. The age at which the patients came under observation varied from 25 to 35; one patient was married, the others were single. In disposition they were characterized as "quiet and reserved." "Quick-tempered and very sensitive," and "seclusive and obstinate," while noth...