As Freud proposed in 1938, could traumatic neurosis constitute an “exception”, because it evicts the sexual and infantile question? ObjectiveThis would essentially mean ceasing to contrast the initial conceptions of the theory of seduction, which made it possible for psychoanalysis to establish itself in its field and in its relationship with the unconscious, with subsequent theories addressing life and death instincts, bringing to the fore not only sexual issues but narcissistic issues as well. MethodBy analyzing Mathilde's story, the purpose of this article is to start from scratch, on the basis of the premise that traumatic neurosis should be regarded as “traumatised neurosis”. ResultThis “traumatized neurosis” could be defined as psychoneurosis struck with terror, whereby a traumatic encounter freezes or annihilates the subject's unresolved sexual issues. DiscussionCould this case study of Mathilde challenge theories centered on fright? Alternatively, could it be sufficient to analyze the traumatic aspects of neurosis to shed light on the issue, and thus remove the symptoms of PTSD? The exploration and the experiencing of these narcissistic challenges are necessary to revive libidinal energy and the life instinct, and could constitute a first step in the reinstatement of infantile neurosis. ConclusionWe therefore propose to contrast the theories on fright and the encounter with the “reality of death” with the theories that focus on traumatic seduction and infantile sexuality, in order to articulate them more efficiently to assist clinical psychoanalytical practice.