MaHS :: Approaching the unconscious :: The problem of types

Jung notes that psychology differs from other areas of scientific enquiry given the therapist is not applying a hypothesis to an impersonal subject. The therapist is dealing with people or more precisely two distinct personalities; his own and the patients. Generally then to arrive at an objective judgment the result must be considered against what is generally valid in the context to which the individual belongs. Jung notes that the desired outcome is not that the individual conforms to the "norms" of society. Jung highlights that disagreement is natural part of normal society given agreement is rare outside of the realm of human instinct [everything is up for grabs except that which is common to all]. Disagreement for Jung then is a feature or human interaction but not the end game. Agreement is importance given a well mind depends upon balanced opposites. 

While dreams require individual treatment a means to classify and clarify the material is necessary so we can proceed. Psychology could not proceed if there was no common ground to illuminate the similarities and differences. General characteristics are the starting point. Jung gives the example of the extrovert and introvert and notes the significance of distinct types within the therapeutic relationship. Given the extrovert will tend to adopt the popular view and the introvert reject it the potential for conflict is significant. Particularly if either comes to the position that their view is the only perspective. Difference then is important in analysis and knowledge and experience amount to only advantage on the side of the therapist. It is fantasy to believe the therapist is superior as though any theory might adequately embrace the psyche; he cannot be certain he is correct and to approach the individual in such a was is to bluntly apply a hypothesis. What is needed is his own personality which is the only equivalent of his patients. He is bound to be tested then and the therapeutic dynamic is important for this reason. 

Jung notes extroversion and introversion as classifications are limited given within groups there is significant variation. Jung sought a further basis upon which to give order to this limitless variation. Jung describes four functional types which include thought, feeling, sensation and intuition. Thinking identifies

what something is, feeling whether I like it or not, sensation if it exists and intuition where something comes from and where it is heading. Feeling is used by Jung here not to define sentiment or something irrational, but instead to highlight a value judgment. The types Jung notes are one means by which consciousness obtains it's orientation to experience. These are not exclusive and other stand points may offer a better view; the basic nature of these elements lend themselves to understanding people and in particular one's own prejudice.

In dream analysis Jung notes that the patient's participation and understanding are more important than theoretical satisfaction. Analysts are at risk of projection [assuming patient and analyst share the same perception]. Jung suggests such pitfalls can be avoided by sticking to the context of the dream rather than theoretical interpretation. Jung asserts there are no general rules aside from the analysts belief that dreams in some way make sense. The assumption then that Jung has made elsewhere that dreams make up for deficiencies or distortions in the conscious mind opens up an approach to the nature or particular dreams. It may be that the dream represents the "shadow" of our personality or positive qualities.

Jung notes that he has often been asked [and wondered himself] why dreams do not communicate open and directly. Freud believed it was a "censor" protecting the dreamer from a disagreeable shock; Jung disagrees given dreams have the potential to disturb. Jung considers then that the unconscious retains ideas at a lower resolution without clarity and definition and as these enter the conscious mind they become more sharply defined. Jung suggests then that this apparent incoherence is precisely the way in which the unconscious mind retains material. Jung then suggests that dreams are manifestations of the psyche beyond the control of the conscious mind; as a plant produces its flower so the psyche creates its symbols. Jung therefore notes that dreams, intuitions, impulses and other instinctive forces influence consciousness. Such influence is contingent upon the content of the unconscious, and negative influence may owe it's existence as a result of repression or neglect. Jung notes it is reasonable for an analyst to elicit voluntary confession of fears and dislikes when considering illness. Jung draws comparison with the confession of the Church which he asserts anticipated modern psychological techniques. Jung notes care and tact are necessary and an individual approach too each case essential even after 60 years of clinical practice. Jung suggests it is necessary to "learn the language of the individual", following the gropings of his unconscious towards the light.