Character Analysis by Wilhelm Reich
- 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) Prana
C) Chi
D) Orgone energy
- 2. Reich's concept of 'muscular armor' refers to:
A) Athletic conditioning
B) Physical strength training
C) Military posture
D) Chronic muscular tensions reflecting psychological defenses
- 3. What is the main goal of Reichian therapy regarding character armor?
A) To create new character structures
B) To dissolve armor and restore energetic flow
C) To analyze dreams exclusively
D) To strengthen defensive mechanisms
- 4. The 'oral character' in Reich's system is characterized by:
A) Aggressive dominance
B) Perfectionism and order
C) Dependency and need for support
D) Sexual promiscuity
- 5. What did Reich mean by 'character resistance' in therapy?
A) Society's resistance to psychotherapy
B) Bodily resistance to medication
C) Therapist's resistance to treating patient
D) Patient's character structure blocking therapeutic progress
- 6. The 'masochistic character' in Reich's typology typically exhibits:
A) Grandiose self-importance
B) Emotional detachment
C) Compulsive cleanliness
D) Self-defeating behavior and suffering
- 7. Reich's work on character analysis was most influential in the development of:
A) Body psychotherapy
B) Family systems therapy
C) Existential therapy
D) Cognitive behavioral therapy
- 8. According to Reich, what happens when character armor is successfully dissolved?
A) Spontaneous emotional and energetic flow returns
B) Physical health deteriorates
C) Intellectual abilities decrease
D) Person becomes socially withdrawn
- 9. Reich believed that character structures are:
A) Solely biological determined
B) Purely psychological constructs
C) Both psychological and physical manifestations
D) Entirely cultural products
- 10. The 'compulsive character' in Reich's system is marked by:
A) Rigid control and perfectionism
B) Physical weakness
C) Social dominance
D) Emotional expressiveness
- 11. What did Reich consider the relationship between character armor and sexuality?
A) Armor enhances sexual performance
B) Sexuality creates character armor
C) No relationship exists
D) Armor inhibits natural sexual expression
- 12. Reich's character analysis was an extension of which psychological approach?
A) Behaviorism
B) Humanism
C) Cognitive therapy
D) Psychoanalysis
- 13. What technique did Reich develop to address bodily armor?
A) Free association
B) Hypnosis
C) Vegetotherapy
D) Dream analysis
- 14. The hysterical character's primary defense is:
A) Sublimation
B) Intellectualization
C) Projection
D) Repression
|