Variations of Intimacy and Isolation

Summary

Empirical investigation of two theoretical personality types, the Intimate and the Isolate, derived from Erikson's “Eight stages” framework. Sixty-one students were selected from a sample to form three groups, Intimates, Isolates, and controls. Group and individually administered assessment techniques, plus interviews, were analyzed by comparing the patterns of significant variables which emerged. Methods of analysis included a factor analysis, rating scales, and categorization of interview data.

The results generally confirmed and extended the hypothesized personality models. The models were elaborated by the emergence of several variations of the personality types. The variations were aligned with precursor and derivative phases of Intimacy and Isolation. Some consistencies in the remembered childhood environments of each type were found.