ABSTRACT
Character types are not black-and-white designations to rigidly place patients but rather a way of discriminating patients’ characteristics with clarity, as the vast majority can be understood by their consistent (although unique) defensive patterns as defined by their genetics and history. Other contributing factors are described. Understanding the basic composite of each character type facilitates astute recognition of each patient. The author describes Reich’s map of character types abbreviated for ease of reference. The typology is comprehensive, describing patterns that are obvious, yet deeply programed into the entire structure of the physical body and nervous system in a holistic way that diagnostic categories in the DSM can’t accomplish. There are case examples and treatment indications. Reich’s concept of health defined in the genital character is consistent with other theorists: Jung, the individuated or developed self, and Masterson, the authentic self. Character types described are phallic types (narcissistic, paranoid, chronic depressive, manic-depressive), anal type (compulsive), ocular types (schizophrenic and catatonic schizophrenic), and the substance abuser. The emphasis is not on symptoms but rather long-term and enduring ways of being, resulting in unhealthy coping strategies developed for basic psychological and physical survival.
