The Space Between Carl Jung and Imago

What is it that attracts us to fall in love with another? Undoubtedly, the feeling of new love is intoxicating. Described by some, it is an irresistible power of feeling alive, understood, and connected. We all seek and long for this love to last. Soon, a power struggle emerges, and that feeling of love and connection is replaced with heartache, conflict, and disconnection. What happened in that space? Is this not my person? Were those initial feelings an illusion or a lie because this reality is not what I signed up for?

Imago Theory examines what transpires in this space in between. “Imago” is a composite image of our caretakers. Though unseen and unconscious, the Imago is the template created in childhood of the person to whom we will be drawn as our intimate partner in adulthood. Carl Jung was the first to use the term “imago,” referring to it as parental imagos or parental complexes.

Numerous theories have contributed to the development of Imago Theory; however, Jung’s contributions stand out, including his ideas of the collective unconscious, the integration of shadow, and individuation, to name a few.

Join Sonia Kruger in the intersection of the Individual paradigm of Carl Jung and the Relational paradigm of Imago Theory. Explore how this applies to all spheres, relationships, and systems of life.