- 1. Character Analysis by Wilhelm Reich is a profound exploration of the relationship between psychological character structure and the physical manifestations of emotional repression. In this seminal work, Reich, who was both a psychoanalyst and a pioneer in understanding the dynamics of human emotions, delves into how individuals develop unique character types based on their interactions with authority, societal norms, and childhood experiences. He introduces the concept of the 'character armoring,' which refers to the ways people unconsciously create defenses against their feelings, leading to rigid biosocial patterns that can significantly impede personal growth and authentic self-expression. Reich argues that understanding the character structure is essential for effective therapy, as it reveals the underlying emotional blocks that prevent individuals from achieving a healthy, liberated state of being. In his analysis, he combines elements of psychoanalysis, biology, and social theory, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to understanding human behavior. Ultimately, Character Analysis serves as both a theoretical framework and a practical guide for therapists, offering insights into how to facilitate deeper emotional awareness and healing in individuals seeking to reclaim their vitality and joy in life.
What did Reich call the basic biological energy that character armor restricts?
A) Libido
B) Chi
C) Orgone energy
D) Prana
- 2. Reich's concept of 'muscular armor' refers to:
A) Athletic conditioning
B) Chronic muscular tensions reflecting psychological defenses
C) Physical strength training
D) Military posture
- 3. What is the main goal of Reichian therapy regarding character armor?
A) To strengthen defensive mechanisms
B) To dissolve armor and restore energetic flow
C) To create new character structures
D) To analyze dreams exclusively
- 4. The 'oral character' in Reich's system is characterized by:
A) Perfectionism and order
B) Dependency and need for support
C) Sexual promiscuity
D) Aggressive dominance
- 5. What did Reich mean by 'character resistance' in therapy?
A) Bodily resistance to medication
B) Patient's character structure blocking therapeutic progress
C) Therapist's resistance to treating patient
D) Society's resistance to psychotherapy
- 6. The 'masochistic character' in Reich's typology typically exhibits:
A) Grandiose self-importance
B) Compulsive cleanliness
C) Emotional detachment
D) Self-defeating behavior and suffering
- 7. Reich's work on character analysis was most influential in the development of:
A) Cognitive behavioral therapy
B) Body psychotherapy
C) Family systems therapy
D) Existential therapy
- 8. According to Reich, what happens when character armor is successfully dissolved?
A) Physical health deteriorates
B) Intellectual abilities decrease
C) Person becomes socially withdrawn
D) Spontaneous emotional and energetic flow returns
- 9. Reich believed that character structures are:
A) Entirely cultural products
B) Both psychological and physical manifestations
C) Purely psychological constructs
D) Solely biological determined
- 10. The 'compulsive character' in Reich's system is marked by:
A) Social dominance
B) Rigid control and perfectionism
C) Emotional expressiveness
D) Physical weakness
- 11. What did Reich consider the relationship between character armor and sexuality?
A) Sexuality creates character armor
B) Armor inhibits natural sexual expression
C) Armor enhances sexual performance
D) No relationship exists
- 12. Reich's character analysis was an extension of which psychological approach?
A) Cognitive therapy
B) Psychoanalysis
C) Humanism
D) Behaviorism
- 13. What technique did Reich develop to address bodily armor?
A) Dream analysis
B) Vegetotherapy
C) Hypnosis
D) Free association
- 14. The hysterical character's primary defense is:
A) Intellectualization
B) Projection
C) Repression
D) Sublimation
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