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rx
character typology
Self-Reliant/Independent (Compensated Oral)
psychospiritual approaches

definition

character typology of Reich and Lowen:
SELF-RELIANT/INDEPENDENT (COMPENSATED ORAL):

etiology: Same as Dependent/Endearing (Child repeatedly experiences lack of support or nourishment. Example: Mother underfeeds, away at work, attending to other children; or overdisciplining mother who "just lets the baby cry") with compensation.

characteristics: Exaggerated independence which fails under stress, afraid to let others take care of them; focuses on taking care of self, constantly testing self and acting on difficulties.

physical appearance: Same characteristics as Dependent/Endearing (Collapsed, slumps, languid movements, no energy; little body hair, small hands and feet; voice weak, sad, and childlike, shallow breathing) with additional physical strength, wiry; can resemble the Industrious/Over-focused body.

strengths: Tuned in to other's needs, easy to trust and talk to, affectionate and expresses feelings (except anger), good at helping professions.

life orientation: "I can need if I am not independent." Remains dependent.
(Wambach and Daggett)

see:
character typology of Reich and Lowen: Introduction
body reveals: the spirit
exploratory or investigative?
process paradigm
Reichian therapy
subjective inquiry approach
the shadow and physical symptoms


footnotes