Fromm's Character Orientations

Erich Frommwas aneo-Freudian他提出了一种基于两个基本需要的人格理论：对自由的需要和对归属的需要。他建议人们发展某些人格styles or strategies in order to deal with the anxiety created by feelings of isolation. Of these character types, he suggested that four of them are unproductive orientations, while one is a productive orientation.

Fromm believed that character is something that stems both from our genetic inheritance and from our learning experiences. Some aspects of our character are hereditary. Other aspects stem from what we learn at home, from school, and from society. And of course, there is the interplay between the two influences.

弗洛姆还认为性格是根深蒂固的，很难改变的。然而，意识到我们的倾向并致力于改变有助于激发改变。这五种性格类型中的每一种都有其积极和消极的一面。然而，弗洛姆通常认为前四个方向是徒劳的。

The Receptive Character Type

The receptive type is characterized by a need for constant support from others. They tend to be passive, needy, and totally dependent upon others. These people require constant support from family, friends, and others, but they do not reciprocate this support. Receptive types also tend to lack confidence in their own abilities and have a difficult time making their own decisions. Individuals who grow up in households that are overbearing and controlling often tend to have this personality orientation.

The Exploitative Character Type

剥削型的人为了得到他们需要的东西，愿意撒谎、欺骗和操纵他人。为了满足归属感的需要，他们可能会寻找那些自卑的人，或者谎称爱一个自己并不在乎的人。这些人通过武力或欺骗来获取他们所需要的，并利用他人来满足他们自己的自私需要。

The Hoarding Character Type

囤积型通过从不放弃任何东西来应对不安全感。他们经常收集大量的财产，而且似乎更关心自己的物质财产而不是人。

The Marketing Character Type

The marketing type looks at relationships in terms of what they can gain from the exchange. They might focus on marrying someone for money or social status and tend to have shallow and anxious personalities. These types tend to be opportunistic and change their beliefs and values depending on what they think will get them ahead.

多产性格类型

The productive type is a person who takes their negative feelings and channels the energy into productive work. They focus on building loving, nurturing, and meaningful relationships with other people. This applies not only to romantic relationships, but also to other familial relationships, friendships, and social relationships. They are often described as a good spouse, parent, friend, co-worker, and employee.

Out of the five character types described by Fromm, the productive type is the only healthy approach todealing with the anxietythat results from the conflict between the need for freedom and the need to belong.