ИСТИНА

I propose a new so-called existential criterion of normal and abnormal personality that is implicitly present in the works of Erich Fromm. According to this criterion, normal and abnormal personalities are determined, first, by special features of the content of their position regarding existential dichotomies, and, second, by particular aspects of the formation of this position. Such dichotomies, entitatively existent in all human life, are inherent, two-alternative contradictions. The position of a normal personality in its content orients one toward a contradictious predetermination of life in the form of existential dichotomies and the necessity of searching for compromise in resolving these dichotomies. This position is created on a rational basis with the person’s active participation. The position of an abnormal personality in its content subjectively denies a contradictious predetermination of life in the form of existential dichotomies and orients one toward a consistent, noncompetitive, and, as a consequence, one-sided way of life that doesn’t include self-determination. This position is imposed by other people on an irrational basis. Abnormal personality interpreted like this is one of the most important factors influencing the development of various kinds of psychological problems and mental disorders—primarily, neurosis. I have shown that this criterion is implicitly present in the personality theories of S.Freud, A.Adler, C.Jung, C.Rogers and V.Frankl, although in a more specific way, towards more special existential dichotomies of nature–culture, superiority–community, the opposites, self-actualization–conditional value, determinism–self-determination The fact that existential criterion is present in six theories of personality, developed within totally different approaches, is an evidence of high degree of its theoretical justification. If we also take into account that all these theories were created based on analysis of clinical cases from psychotherapeutic practice of their authors, this criterion can be considered as having a relatively high degree of empirical justification. Revealed in these theories of personality general provisions indicates the possibility of their integration. I have shown in a number of empirical studies that the existential criterion can be successfully used to diagnose normal and abnormal personality and to identify the causes of many psychological problems in humans.