Caroline Myss on the Child Archetype

We're sorry, the feature you were looking for is no longer available on Beliefnet. The mature personality of the Child archetype nurtures that part of ourselves that longs to be lighthearted, innocent and expectant of the wonders of tomorrow--regardless of our age. This part of our nature contributes greatly to our ability to sense a playfulness in our lives that balances the seriousness of adult life. The balanced Child is a delight to be around because the energy that flows from this part of our personality is infectious and brings out the best in others, as well as in ourselves. When the Child archetype is underdeveloped, it can take on the expressions of: Wounded an inability to get out of the pains of childhood a tendency to always seek out parental figures a tendency to fantasize about the childhood that could have or should have been Orphan plagued with the fear of abandonment always seeking reinforcement from others that they will not leave," thus establishing mature relationships remains a challenge Brat given to obnoxious behavior and temper tantrums chronic need to always be the center of attention prone to fits of jealousy and envy Needy carries a heavy feeling inside that nothing is ever enough similar to Wounded Child, except that bouts with depression tend to the severe tendency to be very focused on their own needs, often unable to see the needs of others back to Health and Archetypes main -->