ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at different areas and manifestations of masochism, and examines what prompts the controlling tendencies that it serves. It starts with the most fundamental level, the experience of helplessness or powerlessness naturally engenders a desire for greater control. The chapter discusses the emotional development of the child is, to a considerable extent, influenced by how far the parents show sensitivity and good judgement. It presents the list some of the key functions of parents as: the ability to tolerate and contain anxiety; the ability to think clearly; the capacity to believe sufficiently in one’s own convictions, combined with; being open to advice or guidance from others; and sound judgement. The process and experience of parenting is something that is not confined to the world of children. A series of interlocking vicious circles of influence have been contributing to the rapid disappearance of family life as a real emotional experience.
