Oedipus Myth versus Oedipal Science

This communication addresses a critical therapeutic issue in psychoanalysis by advocating for the replacement of the term “Oedipus complex” with “Oedipal complex.” I reveal the inherent contradictions within the traditional term, examine its detrimental effects on therapeutic outcomes, and present the alternative “Oedipal complex” as a more advantageous and scientifically sound option. After analyzing passages where Freud conflates the real patient with the mythical figure of Oedipus and acknowledges the pivotal role of names in psychological processes, I employ an engineering technique to support the integration of the adjective “Oedipal” into psychoanalytic discourse. Additionally, I explain how the term “Oedipal complex” is more consistent with the philosophy of science. My contribution addresses intellectual resistance to Freud’s theories and the analysand’s “refusal to heal,” proposing that adopting the refined term could significantly impact the future of psychoanalytic theory and practice. The potential impact of this shift on therapeutic efficacy is considerable.