The Victim Archetype
When I originally taught archetypes in a prescribed system, I had to use the name “victim”, which I always disliked. That name is a label used to judge ourselves and others. It is a weapon rather than a tool for exploration.
By calling someone a victim we further victimize them. When we identify as a victim we disempower ourselves. The word “victim” immediately directs us to the shadow of this archetypal pattern, and what I saw over the years is that people get stuck in the shadow then. It is hard to see anything good about the archetypal pattern when calling it by the name “victim”. The challenges of powerlessness, pain, and trauma take center stage. The gifts of this archetypal pattern that help us not only survive but thrive are lost.
In addition, when we label someone as “playing the victim” or experience that label ourselves, we shut down to connection. This is in direct contrast to the gifts of compassion this archetypal pattern possesses.
This archetype is better known as the “survivor”. This name encompasses all the patterns of this archetype:
- Experiences of victimization
- The confidence needed to heal from attacks
- The compassion for other victims that results from understanding suffering
All of us benefit from the strength of the survivor archetype that courageously carries us to the other shore. This archetypal pattern is a fundamental part of human nature. Using the term “survivor archetype” also helps us shift out of playing the victim and towards healing. As our experience with the survivor increases and we learn how to leverage its gifts, we come further into our authentic selves. Our compassion grows.
Archetypal patterns can’t be changed. And, they can go by different names and descriptions. Our understanding of them increases. There’s always room for rewrites.
GO HERE to read my full article about the SURVIVOR ARCHETYPE
A timely subject for many indeed.
Recognizing that we feel victimized, by life, a person, circumstance… is often the catalytic turning point towards focus, that helps us walk a little taller and leads us away from perceiving the world as stepping on us.
Not an hour ago, did I identify a feeling of victimhood and erred on the side of choice and poof, it was dismantled.
Mahalo my friend and blessings!!
Blessings and love to you too Katja!
Stacey- you are amazing and I learn so much from you – thank you for being who you are and for being such a dedicated teacher!!!
You are so welcome Karen! And thank you for the inspirational way you support others in their challenges and growth through encounters with the victim archetype.
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I just wanted to say that your writing, articulation and genuine insight into the human condition with the Victim and all of the other archetypes is a beautiful thing and has helped me, and I’m sure, many others. Thank you for your powerful gift.
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