Strategies for Introducing Children to Jungian Principles
From economics to psychology, studies have found that it is never too early to begin teaching a child about important life principles. For adults who support, teach, and distribute knowledge about Jungian ideas, the principles may seem too high-level for a young child to understand. However, applying Jung’s theories to everyday life at an early age is essential for a deep understanding of these concepts.
In fact, Carl Jung had a lot to say about child psychology. The development of one’s personality, the lifelong process of self-realization, and the creation of an individual’s ego all relate to childhood. If you are seeking to introduce your child to Jungian principles, while understanding his or her development through this lens, explore three effective practices to utilize.
Explain your child’s emotions through the lens of Jung’s theories
When it comes to childhood, Jung had a lot to say about this particular stage of life. As you look for ways to help your child, it is crucial to begin a dialogue about his or her emotions. As proposed by Jung, humans struggle with the tensions between opposite attitudes within themselves. Create a way of explaining this theory to your child, and help him or her work through any challenging emotions caused by this struggle. Additionally, it is a Jungian idea that parents play a major role in the development of a child’s personality. In addition to observing your role in the development of your child’s personality, be sure to ask your child what he or she needs more of from you. Whether it is time, resources, attention, or assistance in a specific area, communicate frequently to make sure you are meeting your child’s needs as best as possible.
Encourage your child to learn about Jung
Your child will likely not have the opportunity to learn about Carl Jung’s background and theories until he or she reaches high school. Don’t wait until that time to introduce him or her to Jungian ideas. Whether you incorporate the learning as part of your homeschool curriculum, or as a project over the summer, create an assignment for your child. You can have them perform research online or at your local Utah library, and create a report on Carl Jung. Have your child present information on Jung’s life, research, and theories. To make the experience even more meaningful, work on the project with your child to explain concepts that are a bit more difficult to grasp.
If your child requires mental health treatment, seek out Jungian therapy
If your son or daughter requires mental health treatment, seek out a professional who practices Jungian therapy. This type of therapy uses the “analytical form of talk therapy designed to bring together the conscious and unconscious parts of the mind to help a person feel balanced and whole.” A Jungian therapist is most effective in treating anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, and phobias (all of which are common in childhood).
Rather than waiting until their late teens, you can begin teaching your children about Carl Jung and Jungian ideas at an early age. Although your child won’t be able to understand the deeper theories and concepts, providing a basic understanding can help foster an interest for later on in life.
~Jane Sandwood
Freelance Writer
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