Learning from Shrek the all-important idea of Ogres being like onions in that they have many layers – the same can be said for humans.
It appears that as soon as an individual is able to overcome a faulty thought or behavior pattern - that another layer reveals itself. Many may walk around oblivious, or in denial, about their layers of self-limiting thoughts and actions; however, those of us who are in a continuous state of growth and renewal may embrace our particular vulnerabilities and heal the past through affirmations, behavior changes, and alcohol …just kidding on the last one.
An individual’s Achilles’ heel is one of those ignored or unrecognized weaknesses that allow the individual to experience repeated less-than-desired experiences in life…events or feelings that may cause undue angst and a mantra of “why me?”
A familiar vulnerability is the common mother/daughter relationship; or the lack thereof. The endless seeking of loving acknowledgement of one’s accomplishments can become a life-long desire. The archetypal-evil-maternal-figure is unable to ever provide nurturing or acceptance of her daughter. The daughter’s Achilles’ heel is the never-ending desire for recognition and love.
Recent research has focused on personality variables and treatment related issues; studies indicate that personality variables may impact psychotherapeutic treatment and outcomes (Beuttner as cited in Hewitt, Habke, Lee-Baggley, Sherry, & Flett, 2008).
Truthfully, some people are incapable of giving, trusting, loving, or accepting…and that’s okay. The counselor is present to explain that we all have our vulnerabilities, and the recognition and acknowledgment of such allows us to peel back one more layer towards self-discovery.
Reference:
Hewitt, P.L., Habke, A.M., Lee-Baggley, D.L., Sherry, S.B., & Flett, G.L. (2008). The impact of perfectionistic self-presentation on the cognitive, affective, and physiological experience of a clinical interview. Psychiatry: Interpersonal & Biological Processes, 71(2), 93-122.
