Exploring the relationship between self-image and the activation of the archetype of the lover in adult femals: an intuitive inquiry

Abstract

Research indicates that negative self-image, which produces self-abusive thoughts and behavior, is a sociocultural problem for adult females in the United States. Body image is an important part of overall self-image. Negative and distorted body image has been linked to depression, eating disorders, sexual dissatisfaction and dysfunction, and diminished quality of life. Utilizing Intuitive Inquiry to gain greater understanding of the relationship between self-image and the archetype of the lover (also referred to in this study as Aphrodite in the Western context), this study allows coparticipants to be observed and researched, and provides space for the researcher’s own experience and knowledge to be included as part of the research and its findings. This work is grounded in Jungian theory, which states that archetypes are motifs that recur in human history throughout all cultures, making them universal. The archetype of the lover, when activated, can inspire and create greater self-acceptance and self-love. This researcher worked with the co-participants to see what changes, if any, occurred in their self-images over the course of a 4week study. The work included a 4 session experiential process, in which co-participants engaged in activities such as collage making, body mapping, eating different kinds of foods, dressing up, dance/movement, and mirror exposure work. Semi-structured interviews followed the experiential processes, focusing on the co-participants’ experience of their self-image. All of the coparticipants expressed more acceptance of their bodies. Two coparticipants experienced dramatic shifts in their gender identities. Many of the co-participants spoke on body image in relation to racial/ethnic stereotypes, and how that affected them. Twelve lenses were developed to gain a greater understanding of the relationship between self-image and the archetype of the lover, helping to deepen the understanding of the ways in which this archetype may be of service to those suffering from negative self-image.