Cultural Dimensions Theory

Cultural Dimensions Theory, developed by Geert Hofstede, is a framework for understanding and comparing cultural differences across countries and regions. Hofstede’s theory suggests that culture is a shared set of values, beliefs, and behaviors that influence the way people think, communicate, and act. The theory identifies six dimensions of culture that can be used to[…] Continue Reading

Codependency Primer

Codependency is a term used to describe a dysfunctional relationship in which one person enables another person’s addiction, poor mental health, or self-destructive behaviors. The term was originally used to describe the behavior patterns and traits of family members of individuals struggling with addiction. However, it has since been broadened to include any kind of[…] Continue Reading

The Karpman Drama Triangle

The Karpman Drama Triangle is a psychological model that describes dysfunctional interpersonal dynamics commonly found in both personal and professional relationships. It was first described by psychiatrist and transactional analysis theorist Dr. Stephen Karpman. The Drama Triangle involves three roles: the victim, the persecutor, and the rescuer. These roles can be seen as interchangeable and[…] Continue Reading

Masochism Primer

When a person’s history is full of decisions and actions that are harmful to them, it can be difficult to understand. Freud saw self-destructive behavior as the most difficult problem to solve with his theory because it goes against the idea that organisms try to minimize pain and maximize pleasure. Masochism is a term used[…] Continue Reading

Histrionic Primer

Histrionic personality disorder is a mental condition that is characterized by dramatic and attention-seeking behavior. This disorder is often confused with histrionic character, which is a less severe form of the disorder. With histrionic personalities, individuals tend to be high-anxiety, high-intensity, and highly reactive – especially when it comes to interpersonal relationships. These people may[…] Continue Reading

Schizoid Primer

Schizophrenia is a diagnosis that fits people at the disturbed end of the schizoid spectrum, so non-schizoid others often pathologize those with schizoid traits. However, people with schizoid dynamics can range from hospitalized catatonic patients to creative geniuses. Some people with psychotic tendencies are attracted to occupations such as philosophy, spirituality, theoretical science, and the[…] Continue Reading

Psychopathy Primer

Individuals with antisocial tendencies often present some of the most challenging cases for mental health practitioners. This is due in part to the fact that these individuals typically exhibit a lack of remorse or empathy and may be skilled in manipulating those around them. Psychopathy, or antisocial personality disorder, is a mental disorder that is[…] Continue Reading

Narcissism Primer

Narcissism has been a popular topic of discussion in recent years. The term “narcissistic” refers to people whose personalities are organized around maintaining their self-esteem by getting affirmation from outside themselves. This can be done through things such as approval from others or avoiding criticism. Some people have a disproportionate degree of self-concern, to the[…] Continue Reading

Heraclitean Metaphysics as a Framework for Typology

“I use the [Heraclitean] term enantiodromia for the emergence of the unconscious opposite in the course of time.” – C.G. Jung: Psychological Types §709 “I referred to Heraclitus, and [Jung] said Heraclitus knew a lot and he had got the notion of the enantiodromia [i.e. “law of running counter to”] from him. [He said] it[…] Continue Reading

The Game of Thrones Pathologies

Tywin (Oedipus Complex Compulsion) Tywin grew up with a father who almost ruined the family fortune. His father was weak, which made Tywin feel weak himself. Early on, he decided that he must be strong and replace his father as head of the family. As a result, Tywin is compulsively determined never to allow things[…] Continue Reading