Basic i*ru (EcRuUu)

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The i*ru is very similar to the eru [EuRuUu] except that he has become independent, self sufficient, and contemplative, while the eru [EuRuUu] has remained responsive, relating, and active. Generally, the i*ru has learned mental discipline and, as a result, can sustain his mental activity in the face of environmental distraction.

A primary characteristic of the eru [EuRuUu] is that he actively seeks environments in which his activity and responsiveness are tolerated. He also maintains his overt negativism toward pressure for change and adaptation. The i*ru, on the other hand, symbolizes or internalizes his negativism and an does not seek to change his environment; rather, he tries to ignore it and and, at the same time, to exist in it without a great deal of conflict. As a result, the i*ru is essentially a very passive, withdrawn person who actively resists any attempt to stimulate him to be more responsive. He makes no effort to get external support, but remains engrossed in his own interests, his own welfare, and his own needs.

Obviously, there is a definite schizoid flavor to this adjustment. The major difference between the pure schizoid (iru) [IuRuUu] adjustment and the semi-schizoid (i*ru) form lies in the tendency of the iru [IuRuUu] to be oblivious to distraction and and, therefore, to be truly out of contact while the i*ru has more of a defensive withdrawal. When stimuli are directed toward the i*ru, he is negatively responsive, and since the i*ru* [EcRuAc] invites more social involvement and has to develop even more overt hostility in order to maintain his independence. The i*r*u* [EcFcAc] has even more tension, since he is a primitive EFA.

The i*ru is usually a social isolate who maintains his independence by commitment to mental activity. He resents intrusion and and tends to be suspicious and anxious whenever people come near him or appear interested in him. Many hermits and recluses who fortify their homes and act belligerently or with hostility toward trespassers come from this cluster. The ultimate adjustment of the i*ru is dependent on the extent to which he can develop some skill that will maintain him. The i*ru with average or better intelligence can become a good researcher, analyst, special librarian, or museum curator, but never loses his tendency to be seclusive, secretive, and suspicious. The i*ru is thrifty, often miserly, and an is likely to be a hoarder.