ABSTRACT
In accordance with the theoretical expectations regarding the ontogenesis of a strong Oedipus complex, the acceptance of the Trobriand Oedipal hypothesis requires the following ontogenetic prediction be confirmed. During the pre-Oedipal period of development the Trobriand boy experiences a highly seductive mother and a father who is remote either physically or psychologically. According to the stipulation, support for the aggressive dimension of the postulated Trobriand Oedipus complex requires that during the pre-Oedipal period the boy experience not only a highly seductive mother, but also a physically or emotionally remote father. It should be apparent that the same Trobriand conditions—a long postpartum sex taboo and exclusive mother-child sleeping arrangements—that create the seductive pre-Oedipal mother also create a remote pre-Oedipal father. In sum, since the pre-Oedipal Trobriand boy experiences a father who is relatively remote, both physically and psychologically, the second part of the ontogenetic prediction is also supported.
