Oedipal dynamics in panic disorder

Both research and clinical work have revealed factors that can lead to the onset and persistence of panic disorder. Preoedipal conflicts intensify the danger of oedipal longings for panic patients. Competition with the same-s ex parent is linked with angry preoedipal fantasies and associated fears of disruption in attachments. Fantasied or actual successes can thus trigger panic episodes. Regression to a helpless, dependent state such as panic def ends against the danger of aggressive, competitive fantasies and actual ach ievements. However, the regressive state can also be experienced as dangero us, and can be linked with frightening homosexual fantasies. A reactive agg ressive oedipal stance can sometimes result, triggering escalating turmoil. The panic episode serves a series of compromise formations in dealing with these conflicted wishes.