We're sorry, the feature you were looking for is no longer available on Beliefnet. <!-- <a target="_top" href="/index/index_455.html"><img align="left" border="0" alt="" src="/imgs/tout/myss_icon4.gif" /></a>If you're having difficulties with your health, consider the role archetypal patterns may play. Archetypes are patterns of behavior and perception. They are not simply external models, but live deeply inside of you affecting your beliefs and attitudes. Understanding archetypes and how you identify with them, will help greatly in your journey to a more conscious life.<br /><br />To view how the <a target="_top" href="/story/84/story_8453_1.html">four central or survival archetypes</a> interact with health, take a mom of four, suffering from persistent sinus infections:<br /><br /><a href="/story/84/story_8449_1.html">Child</a>: Often uses health issues to remain as the center of attention.<br />During family dinner, her daughter attempts to talk about how she's adjusting to her new braces; mom keeps changing the subject to her sinus headache.<br /><br /><a href="/story/84/story_8452_1.html">Victim</a>: Blames others and circumstances for her physical conditions.<br />Even though she knows that dairy products often lead to sinus infections, she blames atmospheric conditions instead of the half-pound of cheese she ate at a party.<br /><br /><a href="/story/84/story_8450_1.html">Prostitute</a>: Will show you what you are willing to negotiate in order to provide for your health.<br />Knowing she has an acupuncture appointment that will provide relief, she continues working on a business project.<br /><br /><a href="/story/84/story_8451_1.html">Saboteur</a>: Creates situations which block your healing because you fear the changes that might take place.<br />After a doctor presents her with a surgical option for relieving her sinus problems, she (fearful of the pain of surgery and recovery) dwells on her dislike of the doctor's bedside manner and refuses to have the surgery.<br /><br />See how these archetypal patterns play out in your life by answering some <a target="_top" href="/story/84/story_8447_1.html">questions</a>.<br /> -->