Psychosexual Development The Journey Toward Becoming Mature Life-Givers and Lovers

Spirituality of Incarnation “…and the Word became flesh.” –John 1:14 Logos (Word) Sarx (Flesh)

Em-Bodiment To be incarnate at this time and place, with our unique background. Caro salutis est cardo The flesh is the pivot-point of salvation. Tertullian

In-Carnation as Journey Being in a body isn’t the same as being “incarnate”. A demanding, disciplined process. Embracing the human condition.

Escapes from Incarnation Repression Flight from the body. Addiction Fusion with the physical- emotional instincts.

Spirituality of Development Our awakening is an awakening of God and our rising is God’s rising. --John of the Cross

Toward Mature Loving Psychology:  Growth  Development  Maturity  Integration Faith/Spirituality:  Grace/gift  On-going Conversion  Chastity  (W)holiness

Chastity “A School for the gift of the self…” --Catholic Catechism

Discipleship and Sexuality Lay Down Your Life. “There is no greater love than this—to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Take Up Your Life. You can’t lay your life down, if you haven’t taken it up.

“Taking Up” Your Sexual Energy Another way of describing psychosexual development. The long journey toward integration

What Is Psychosexual Development? All life unfolds. Person-in- process. Psycho-cognitive- emotional- spiritual-physical- social growth.

Peek-a-Boo: Metaphor for Growth in Intimacy You can see me! Relationships are joyful. I will be in charge of my self-disclosure. Some day, you can see my dreams, hopes, pain, vulnerable feelings.

Stages of Psychosexual Development Prenatal Childhood Adolescence Adulthood

Cycles of Psychosexual Development Awakening Exploring Relating

Real Life Journey Phases Stages Breakdowns Challenges Struggles Breakthroughs Cycles

Our Inmost Self “You created my inmost self, knit me together in my mother’s womb. A wonder am I…” --Ps 139:13-14

Prenatal Psychosexuality Primal rhythm of sexual response begins. Biological influences on sexual orientation. Strength and intensity of sexual arousal.

Toward Integration Interiority —deepening self-awareness Responsibility —emerging sense of agency Creativity —developing passion and generative spirit. Intimacy —increasing capacity for self- disclosure.

Integrated Sexuality Compassion & Personal Warmth Tenderness & Gentleness with People Good Self-Esteem Healthy Self-Awareness Ability to Take Risks Psychic and Emotional Flexibility Body Comfort

Compartmentalized Sexuality Judgmental Attitudes Toward Others Critical, Punitive, Secretive Subtle Lack of Genuineness Grandiosity or Low Self-Esteem Careless or Overly Cautious Superficially Charming or Aloof Rigidity (“rigid orthodoxy”).

On-Going Integration What still hurts? What needs healing?

Ongoing Integration How Can I Still Grow In the Skill and Art of Intimacy?