The researchers · C.S. Joseph
Beyond one set of eight functions: C.S. Joseph's theory that each person has four sides to their mind, each with its own expression.
From C.S. Joseph to OnType
C.S. Joseph, whom OnType regards as the modern father of analytical psychology, is the architect of the Four Sides of the Mind. He developed the theory in the Jungian psychological community and teaches it through his podcast and YouTube channel.
The theory proposes that each person has four egos within their personality rather than one. Each side holds the functions in a different arrangement, so a person has many more expressions of the functions than a single stack of eight would suggest.
OnType uses the four sides to describe how people grow. Each side has a healthy and an unhealthy expression, and each is entered through its own gateway.
The model at a glance
Hero · Parent · Child · Aspirational
Where people spend most of their time; matures as they take responsibility for their top two functions.
+ Responsibility− Irresponsibility
The ego functions in reverse order
Reached by working through the fears of the Aspirational function with humility.
+ Confidence and humility− Pride and insecurity
Nemesis · Critic · Trickster · Demon
Often accessed through failure or being called out; develops with experience.
+ Wisdom and maturity− Foolishness and immaturity
The ego's opposite functions, led by the Demon
The final side of the mind; it can protect or undermine, depending on how it is developed.
+ Love and forgiveness− Hatred and vengeance
In OnType's model
The ego holds the first four functions, along with the type's temperament and interaction style. It is where people operate most of the time, and it becomes more accurate as they take responsibility for it.
The subconscious holds the ego functions in reverse order and is entered through the Aspirational. Pushing past the fears tied to that function with humility lets it act as a second Hero. The shadow, the lower four functions, is usually reached through failure or being called out, and matures with experience. The superego holds the ego's opposite functions and is led by the Demon; developed well, its expression is love and forgiveness.
Each OnType type page shows its four sides and the gateway into each.
More on the model: Jung: functions · Beebe: attitudes · Keirsey: temperaments · Berens: interaction styles
Take the free test to see where you fit, or read how the pieces work together.