The possibility of self-realization, through both individual achievement and sexual fulfillment, permeates self psychology. This possibility is also supported by our own clinical experience that strengthening the self-esteem of a patient expands ego functioning. Thus the potential exists for more gratifying self and object relations, including more loving relationships between parents and children, Le., intergenerational continuity. But this bright prospect for humankind is darkened by the shadow of the Oedipus complex.