Professional assessment may be needed.

Posted by Brian C. on July 31, 2000 at 21:56:56:

In Reply to: Re: Book Title: Women who hurt themselves. posted by Jimmy on July 31, 2000 at 16:07:34:

: Brian, Would you say a 9 is more likely to be MPD or BPD? What can one do to help somewhat with dissociative problems?
: I have a friend who is a 9 who I think really suffers. I wish I knew how to help.

9s have a tendency to not act upon feelings (whether T or F.) For some, this manifests as an Obs. Comp. tendency
(not OCD.) A tendency to narcotize exists (distracting piddling, food, alcohol, etc.) Perceptive acquaintances can
discern an absence of self in 9 friends which superficially seems "self-less," an admirable quality (Ronald Reagan?)
Professional Psychiatric assessment can determine if pathology exists (Character disorder, Personality disorder) or if
normal, but neuraotic exists. Normals can improve with either emotive therapy (art, music, dance) or Cognitive
therapy (for the affective 9s.) IMO 9s are more likely "submerged personalities" rather than BPD/MPD. Anything is
possible (no pun intended) but IMO most 9s value self-lessness, UNTIL that moment of TRUTH appears. Then the
anger emerges and requires focused application by an adult who has little skill at assertive behavior. The result is
a form of ambivalent rage, sadism, or cynicism.

Personal advice: encourage your friend to gradually get physically active (body, mind connection) and thus prime the
pump. The chore is to get out of head or heart and become aware of Gut. Physical and social activity are a starting
point. When the 9 wants to improve suggest a spiritual approach like the Enneagram. Then let go. And hope for the
best. Giving honest acceptance of preferences helps a 9 become aware that they (preferences and the 9) exist.
We are skilled at frustrating most people because of an inherent antipathy to change and responsibility.
Sounds charming doesn't it? Clint Eastwood? Annette Benning? Dwight Eisenhower? Mahahtma Ghandi? Wm Holden?
Can't be all bad.

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