Agreed, though the "dark side" (or stress prompted) behaviors are really the trademark traits of each type, and the Enneagram in general. Most Enneagram sources would pinpoint these traits at "average" health (for any type), it's like the stuff we always have to keep tabs on, or it'll just naturally happen. I have quite a many 2's in my life, and (like any other type and their respective issues) they tend to do things for approval on a pretty regular basis-- for each of us, regardless of type, "healthy" isn't really a place we can exist for very long at. I tend to use the term "health-focused" to describe people who are aware of their negative motivations daily, and check themselves. That's about as healthy as any of us can get, because there's maintenance involved.
Yes, I agree wholeheartedly that awareness > practically addressing core fears and motivations is imperative
'Healthiness' and ‘state of maintenance’ is an intriguing topic. I have recently been studying self-efficacy & mental health. Poring over data compiled from usage of the Mental Health Confidence Scale, Herth Hope Index, Community Living Scale, UCLA Loneliness scale etc…
The results point to complex, multi-faceted factors in personal awareness and paths to health. Including relationships among: symptoms, self-concept and social outcomes. Even folks devoted to the studies try to avoid generalizations, feeling more longitudinal data is required before firm conclusions can be reached.
It HAS been found that mental health systems that facilitate a person’s - fostering optimism, learning strategies for coping and advocating for personal needs - are most efficient.
Thus, my concern in giving emphasis to enneagram qualities one displays at one’s worst - over what is possible when one is in a
“health-focused†state. (Enjoyed your phrasing there btw).
When preparing for travel I want to know possible
pitfalls or dangers that may arise, certainly. But, I would not favour a guide-book that highlights those while downplaying the
appeal of local fare, adventure, cuisine etc.
Although being a helper, my personal validation comes more from inward sense of self, than seeking approval from other’s. This was not always the case. Over time it has become my default state. Though I easily admit (as you stated) that I can back-slide in times of stress or duress.
I am a firm believer in loving openly. With a large part of the experience being: joy derived from one’s personal appreciation or value of the other person. To expect or feel entitled to reciprocation can only lead to disappointment. I agree that is indeed: a painful learning experience for a 2 who has yet to make the paradigm shift & continue to self-adjust.