Category Archives: conscience

Barriers to Forming a Healthy Conscience

As I’ve asserted in countless workshops: “Internalization of a prohibition is essentially an act of submission.” Narcissists see no need for that. And aggressive personalities fight tooth and nail against it. 

Beyond Egocentrism to Wholesome Character

Mature character demands we outgrow our natural egocentrism. But an entitled, egocentric, narcissistic culture holds many of us back.

Narcissistic Personalities Come in Various Types

With narcissistic personalities, one description does not really fit all. Vulnerable, “compensatory” types are very different from their heartless, “grandiose” counterparts.

Codependency Versus Emotional Dependency

True codependency is widely misunderstood, and often mistaken for emotional dependency, a significant risk factor for abuse and exploitation in relationships.

Obstinate Denial and Mental Filtering

Some so-called denial is rooted in obstinacy, a stubborn refusal to accept a reality that challenges a person to change and grow.

Making Amends Reveals Character

Making amends for harm done is a duty, to be sure. But the spirit with which one does this noble work of repair testifies to one’s character.

Emotional Romeos Are Masters of Seduction

Emotional Romeos are masters of seduction. They can sweep you off your feet at first, but they’ll inevitably bring you pain and heartache.

Culture Influences Character and Vice-Versa

How Culture Influences Character Culture influences character development in many ways. Various values, norms, and traditions largely define a culture. And cultures invariably promote these things and their embrace by constituents. (Cultures also tend to punish failures to embrace these things!) Consequently, culture has a lot to do with the attitudes folks form and the … Continue reading Culture Influences Character and Vice-Versa