An embodiment of the invention is a method for modeling a reflexive inverse relationship in a computer system. A general association representing the reflexive inverse relationship is created. The general association has a named end and an unnamed end. A specific association having the general association as a generalization is created. The specific association has a first specific end and a second specific end. The first specific end is used to redefine the named end of the general association. The second specific end is also used to redefine the named end of the general association.