“A man who has been the indisputable favorite of his mother keeps for life the feeling of a conqueror.”
- May 6, 1856 – September 23, 1939
- Austrian
- Neurologist, Founder of Psychoanalysis
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Quote
“A man who has been the indisputable favorite of his mother keeps for life the feeling of a conqueror.”
Explanation
This quote by Freud reflects his belief in the profound psychological influence of early childhood experiences, particularly the bond between mother and son. Being the “indisputable favorite” of one’s mother, Freud suggests, instills a deep and lasting sense of self-worth and inner confidence. Such a child grows up feeling uniquely valued and powerful—what Freud calls the “feeling of a conqueror.” This foundational emotional security can contribute to a lifetime of boldness, ambition, and resilience.
In Freud’s psychoanalytic framework, the mother-son relationship plays a central role in the formation of the ego and the development of self-esteem. If a mother consistently affirms her son’s worth, he internalizes a positive self-image, which can shield him from future doubts and anxieties. Freud did not necessarily mean this literally in every case, but rather illustrated how early emotional privilege can shape one’s inner narrative and outlook on life.
Modern psychology supports this insight through research on attachment theory and self-concept development. Individuals who experience unconditional love and affirmation in early life often exhibit greater emotional stability and motivation. Real-world examples range from successful leaders to artists who recall maternal encouragement as key to their drive and confidence. Freud’s quote continues to highlight the psychological power of early affection, and how deep-seated feelings of being special can fuel lifelong achievement.
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