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Women and Men at the Crossroads of a Changing World
Men and women are growing increasingly distant. This lecture argues that our current relational landscape reflects a profound societal upheaval. If we view human history as a 24-hour clock, women have been legally ‘free’ for only a few minutes–a recent emancipation that profoundly reshapes how we relate as a species and in our intimate partnerships. This paradigm shift, anticipated by C. G. Jung a century ago, is still very much in motion.
While women have achieved significant outer freedom through social and legal independence, they now grapple with intense inner pressures. They face the challenge of being emotional caretakers for their partners while simultaneously living up to an ideal of modern womanhood, all without compromising their femininity. Conversely, men are called to move beyond historical collective personas, yet seem adrift in finding a new way forward. If women’s journey has been an outer push for a place in the world, Jung suggested that for men, the essential path will be an inner one–“needful feminine insight into their own psyche.”
These fundamental changes bring forth complex dynamics that create significant friction in today’s relationships, particularly as they clash with the need for individuation. Ultimately, we are not merely experiencing growing pains, but standing at the threshold of a challenging, yet transformative, New Era of relating.
David Pressault is a Jungian analyst in Montreal. Before turning to analytical psychology, he spent twenty years as a professional dancer and choreographer and founded and directed his own dance company. He completed his analytic training with the Ontario Association of Jungian Analysts in 2012.His work helps individuals confront and integrate unconscious aspects of their personality, infusing new energy and possibilities into their lives. His approach draws from his extensive experience in the arts and a deep commitment to personal growth. Along his private practice, David gives lectures, teaches on dreams, Jungian theory and leads movement-based workshops exploring the archetypes.
Website: www.davidpressault.com