CPTK Flashcards
Imago theory assumes that the behaviors that disrupt peace in the family and in the world arise from what?
From childhood pain and emotional injuries that require heal-
ing.
What does “Imago” mean?
Imago is a Latin word for image. Its meaning is the key to un-
derstanding Imago Theory, which recognizes the power of the imprinted images that register in the unconscious mind.
This process begins even before birth, as the brain is pro-
grammed with associations being made between, for example, being fed and the smell of the mother and the softness of her skin.
The infant may learn an association between crying and being
soothed by the parent. These are positive images. The infant may
also learn to associate crying with being left alone. Human beings,
even from infancy, are imprinting that image which impacts what they will be drawn to and what they will expect from others in response to various behaviors. Is it useful to cry? Yes, if it brings the gratification of being held and/or fed. Several years into childhood, what happens when the child experiences pain? If the parent experiences anxiety when the child is hurt, s/he may not be able to respond in a loving manner.
Thus begins the establishment of the Imago, the image we store as sensations in the brain. This Imago affects all of our future relationships. It has an impact on every relationship, whether it is with a friend or with our life partner, influencing how we experience and respond to others.
-from CPTK pdf, p3
