“This person has an impoverished or emotionally and physically uncomfortable relationship to the world belied by their presentation of glitz and shine. They cannot bear, even momentarily, to be seen up close, beneath the skin. Others might perceive them as winners, as having made it, but often they are internally empty, disillusioned, anxious, confused, alienated and, most of all, estranged from themselves. Looking successful to others does not fill the empty spaces within.”
(Susan E. Schwartz)
In this conversation we discuss:
What is the “as-if” personality
The “as-if” personality, imposter syndrome, and narcissism
The traumatic origin of the “as-if” personality structure
Growing up with psychically dead parents
Emptiness, void, and disembodiment
Shadow work and the creative potential of this type
The “as-if” person in therapy and how to become real
The transformative power of dreams
More about Susan Schwartz
Find out more about Susan’s work on her website, including free samples of her books. Her new book is available on Amazon, Routledge, and Karnac Books.
If you haven’t already, I recommend listening to our previous interview about her first book on the absent father effect on daughters.
Want to hear more?
I will also release a longer video this month where I’ll be discussing some of the highlights from the book. This will only be available for paid subscribers, so if you’re enjoying my content and want to support me create more in-depth explorations like this, upgrade to a paid subscription.
You also support Begin Again when you like and share this post, and leave a comment below–I’d love to hear your questions, stories, or observations on this fascinating topic.
Thank you for listening and for being here!
[Free episode] How real are you? The "as-if" personality with Susan Schwartz, PhD