Pearson-Marr Archetype Indicator (PMAI)

 

Michele Lucas, LCSW, BCD

“Within all of us are guides that can help us know when we are following the best path for us.”

…Carol S. Pearson and Hugh K. Marr                        Introduction to Archetypes

The Pearson Marr Archetype Indicator (PMAI)  assesses twelve basic archetypes associated with maturing and taking responsibility in life and in today’s world. Michele uses the PMAI to help people identify the archetypes that
may be shaping their life path.

Some believe that there are energetic structures that shape our lives in significant ways. Dr. C.G. Jung, contemporary of   Dr. Sigmund Freud, called these structures archetypes. Rupert Sheldrake, Ph.D, from the United Kingdom has researched this concept and calls these energetic (or morphic) fields.

The PMAI is a paper and pencil self-report instrument based on Jung’s theories.  It is designed
to help us understand ourselves and others by identifying archetypal themes influencing our
lives. It is backed by years of research and application in a broad spectrum of areas; i.e.
education, counseling, personal growth. Each archetype is valued equally and offers a gift
unique to it.

Understanding Archetypes

Jung conceived archetypes to be psychological structures (guides) that can help us know when
we are following the best path for us in our life journey. They are common to all cultures and
all times. Although archetypes are universal, each of us expresses them differently, endowing
archetypes with somewhat different styles, traits and mannerisms.

As aspects of ourselves, archetypes can reveal our most important desires and goals.
Understanding their expression in our life stories can help us gain access to unrealized potential,
grasp the logic and importance of our lives, and increase our empathy for the stories that we and
others live.

The PMAI also may help us to better understand our life story and journey, and the various
stages of our life. However, the journey is a spiral, so we may revisit various stages of our life at
different times in our life and at different levels of sophistication. Thus, the results of the PMAI
can change over time.

If you would like more information about the PMAI, please contact Michele at 203-852-9874 or e-mail at therapydoeswork@yahoo.com.