The normal effect of a complex is to produce action. A train of activity is set in motion whose goal is the realisation of the desires and tendencies constituting the driving force of the complex. The complex finds a complete expression in the achieving of its ends. There is, however, another mode of expression by which satisfaction is often obtained, although that satisfaction is only partial and limited. This second mode of expression is the construction of phantasy. In phantasy—or, to use the more widely known term, day-dreaming—we do not seek to satisfy our complexes in the world of reality, but content ourselves with the building of pleasant mental pictures in which the complexes attain an imaginary fulfilment.

The distinction between these two modes, the direct and complete expression in action, and the partial expression in phantasy, may be clearly seen in the effects produced by the so-called ‘self-assertion complexes’. By the self-assertion complexes we mean those tendencies to aggrandisement of the self and the achieving of distinction amongst one's fellows which may be roughly grouped together under the heading of ‘ambition’. Their normal direct effect is to be seen in the individual's struggle to get on, and to obtain a position which will ensure to him the respect and admiration of others. In addition to the direct expression in action, however, these complexes may expend a variable portion of their energy in the construction of phantasy.