Addiction to Perfection: The Still Unravished Bride: A Psychological Study

This book has gone a long way toward helping me bring some key issues in my life and dreams to consciousness. Having read a lot of Woodman's writings, I'd have to say this may be her key book. After reading the review written by the reviewer below I'm reminded of the fact that the Jungian way of thinking is not for everyone. Those who tend to take life events, stories, dreams, and personalities literally will probably think this book is loopy. However, I have found that the use of archetypal images and themes in exploring my life goes a long way toward getting at the depths of who I am without explaining away the mystery or reducing myself to a one-dimensional being.Woodman is a brilliant archetypal thinker. This book is so dense with good stuff that it is impossible to absorb it all in one or even two readings. Well worth having around to read over and over again

....of women's issues, addiction, control, and perfectionism from a Jungian-mythic standpoint. Not only enjoyable reading but packed with clinical wisdom and creative insight. Woodman has a sharp eye out for the mythic underpinnings of Western patriarchy and how its Apollonian overvaluation of mastery, domination, and efficiency has shaped the psyches of women and men. Although the case material could use some shortening, it enlivens the book and keeps it grounded in felt realities.

....of women's issues, addiction, control, and perfectionism from a Jungian-mythic standpoint. Not only enjoyable reading but packed with clinical wisdom and creative insight. Woodman has a sharp eye out for the mythic underpinnings of Western patriarchy and how its Apollonian overvaluation of mastery, domination, and efficiency has shaped the psyches of women and men. Although the case material could use some shortening, they enliven the book and keep it grounded in felt realities.

Marion Woodman's "Addicted to Perfection" is the best of her many works. She describes how we are all addicted to perfection and to being what our parents wanted us to be. This is expressed in active addicts through the abuse of alcohol, food, and sex according to our compulsive needs for father, mother and union (in corresponding order). I have shared this tape with several friends in Overeater's Anonymous who felt they got more insight from it than many years of 12-step work. Its not that they were going to quit the OA program, its just that Marion got to the heart of the problem in one cassette tape! For anyone struggling with an addiction, this tape is a must. It is also helpful for those who haven't needed to become an addict - the underlying principles are a part of the human condition today.

Marion Woodman is able to bring experience, intellect and spirit to the world of addiction. And, she goes right to the heart of ANY addiction -- by going to our addiction to perfection. From this springs addictions to alcohol, food or whatever. In todays culture of addiction and non-responsibility, here is a message that can truly help an individual change her self-destructive path. I have nearly memorized this audiotape and each time I listen to it, I find it more and more meaningful.