Associations: Types

The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances: if there is any reaction, both are transformed. ­– C.G. Jung  

It is important to know the type of association you have with the people in your life. We are all peculiar in our own right and relate in as many different ways to our associations as there are the number of us. If associations will determine your future then you would agree with me that you must critically analyze the type of association you have with each person in your life. Before we go into the various forms of human associations, understand that associations are a two way reaction. It is often give and take.

The first form of association is a commensal association. It describes an association in which one party benefits while the other isn’t significantly benefited nor harmed. This association is best for mentor-protégé relationship. The mentor may not gain much but should not be harmed. If it isn't a mentor-protégé relationship it may turn out be a significant waste of time to always be with someone that gains from you whilst leaving you the same.

Then there is an association in which one party gains from the other and completely overshadows the second. This form of association occurs most often in some boss-employee relationships. The boss grows toward his goal, gaining from the employee, while giving back nothing to enhance the growth and development of the employee. A variant of this form of association can best be described with the biological term, parasitic. A parasitic person will gain from you but in return harm you. In essence it is what he gains from you that destroy you. Another variant of this when both parties involved in the relationship destroy each other. Drug addicts and the like find solace in this form or association. You don't want to be a part of any of this.

Finally, there is a symbiotic association in which the parties involved gain from each other for the lifetime of the association. On a level playing ground this is the ideal form of relationship for every type of growth and development desired. A symbiotic relationship can grow on for years, becoming stronger and stronger.

       Like I highlighted earlier, associations are always two way. As you look closely at your relationships you may be tempted to analyze them selfishly. I propose you consider them objectively because you may be the party taking from and not adding to it.