ABSTRACT
Th is chapter presents the case of Eric, who was diagnosed with depressive personality disorder (DPD). As will be seen in Eric’s presenting problems and confl icts, elements of masochism, narcissism, and sexual orientation confusion were prominent parts of the distress that he experienced. His sexual confl icts appeared to be related to unresolved issues surrounding his gender identity, which likely stemmed from his earlier experiences of loss, disappointment, and self-recrimination. His case provides an excellent example of the interrelatedness of psychosexual developmental themes and how they help the clinician understand the patient’s diffi culties.
