Jung and Gender Identity
Date: 25 February 2012
10am - 12.30pm
Jean Thomson
Jung’s idea of the structure of the psyche differed from that of Freud. Classically, he suggested that five basic archetypes form a blueprint for the emerging personality. Two, animus and anima, are inbuilt recognition of gender and sexuality. That is, everyone carries a contrasexual element. Jung himself struggled to define his understanding of being a man. He suggested anima as the feminine or soul aspect, animus as male. These notions lead to much debate so, in looking at the implied complexity of gender identity, I suggest two other archetypes as forming a basis for homeostatic integration in the human system: Jung’s ‘two kinds of thinking’, logos (conscious) and eros (creative) thought also contribute to our realisation of gender identity. Archetypes are universal processes and Jung also insisted that the individual always grows as a part of the collective culture in which he or she lives. Thus, culture, mother and family are fundamental influences on gender identity and sexuality.
Jean Thomson is a Professional Member of SAP, now retired from private practice. Previously she worked in the NHS and as a Student Counselling Tutor at London University.
Cost: £25 (£15 for students with ID) Tea and coffee will be served
Venue: The SAP, 1 Daleham Gardens, NW3 5BY
ADVANCE BOOKING NECESSARY
020 7435 7696
Posted by SAP Admin
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