Thesis (Ph.D.)--Union Institute and University, 2002
This Project Demonstrating Excellence is a three-part investigation into, and reflection on, the Archetypal Feminine. Depth psychological relationship is established between this phenomenon and the Feminine self or psychic representative of wholeness. The first of three essays explores the possibility of Divine Feminine or Feminine Spirituality. This exploration explicates the major psychological theory relating to religion and spirituality and uncovers gender proscriptions within conceptualizations. Extensive focus is given to Goddess culture and historical evolution of the Goddess image. Restoration and reclamation are two paths identified to establish knowledge and relationship to this lost yet re-emerging archetype. The second essay involves a comprehensive review of developmental theory related to women. A “fear of the Feminine” is uncovered and described. At the same time, a dark side of the Feminine archetype is identified and conscious awareness of this manifestation is encouraged. An additional “dark Feminine” is described as a Feminine that has lost contact with its vital components, relegating them to unconscious territory from which they intrude into consciousness in aberrant forms. Value judgments with regard to darkness itself are examined as are phallocentric and androcentric biases in developmental theory focused on women. The final essay represents a different writing style in a reflective analysis of personal process. This narrative recounts the experiences of the writer as she authored, developed and participated in the program that led to her Project Demonstrating Excellence. Personal as well as professional avenues of exploration are cited, all interconnected and emergent from proficiency topics. In this manner a whole new program defines itself as the writer participates in personal and professional self expansion
