International Research and Academic scholar society

CAN the FATHER COMPLEX BECOME INSTITUTIONALIZED? WOMEN’S ORGANIZATIONAL EXPERIENCE in the CONTEXT of the ELECTRA COMPLEX


Sr No:
Page No: 82-90
Language: English
Authors: Assoc. Prof. Yesim Sirakaya*
Received: 2025-09-30
Accepted: 2025-10-20
Published Date: 2025-10-24
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Abstract:
This study examines the relationship between two key concepts of psychoanalytic theory-the father complex and the Electra complex-in the context of women employees’ industrial experiences. The research aims to understand the influence of these psychodynamic structures on organizational culture, perceptions of leadership, relationships with authority, and career advancement. In the literature, the father complex is defined as the reflection of an individual’s unconscious conflicts with the father figure on adult behavior and relationship patterns, while the Electra complex refers to a woman’s emotional and competitive orientation toward her father. The study discusses how these two concepts are reflected in “institutionalized” forms within organizational structures, particularly in male-dominated sectors, hierarchical organizations, and environments characterized by authoritarian leadership styles, and how they influence women’s decision-making processes, leadership roles, and workplace relationships. The findings indicate that women employees’ relationships with authority figures can be shaped by the unconscious father image and Electra dynamics, which in turn may affect organizational commitment, job satisfaction, and career motivation. The study argues for making the psychodynamic perspective more visible in the field of industrial and organizational psychology and, in this regard, offers both theoretical and practical recommendations for researchers and human resource professionals.
Keywords: Father complex, Electra complex, women employees, organizational experience, psychoanalytic theory, industrial and organizational psychology.

Journal: IRASS Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
ISSN(Online): 3049-0170
Publisher: IRASS Publisher
Frequency: Monthly
Language: English

CAN the FATHER COMPLEX BECOME INSTITUTIONALIZED? WOMEN’S ORGANIZATIONAL EXPERIENCE in the CONTEXT of the ELECTRA COMPLEX