Re: A Case of Feelings

Training oneself to avoid or cut off feelings depends on the unconsicous, fictional final goal of security and significance that requires such strategies. Each case is unique, and the style of life, or manner of dealing with life's tasks, is a logical extenstion of the unconscious goal.

If an individual believes that a display of vulnerable feeling would make him appear weak or a loser in a contest, he will train himself to conceal these feelings. Many atheletes train themselves not only to endure intense physical pain, but also to inhibit feelings of fear and anxiety.

An individul generally exhibits the range and depth of feelings that are useful to his style of life and goal. A dominant, abusive, controlling person may find that anger and rage are the most useful feelings, especially since they often provoke fear in others. A dependent victim may cry easily, and often be at the brink of sadness and fear. These are also useful feelings that can elicit help and sympathy.

Read Adler's writings on "the psychology of use" in "The Individual Psychology of Alfred Adler," edited by Heinz and Rowena Ansbacher.

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