Basic e*f*u (IcRcUu)

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The e*f*u adjustment is most often resistant in nature. Unlike the e*f*a* [IcRcUc] who adapts to, imitates, and precisely conforms to his milieu or cultural heritage, the e*f*u is more likely to be out-of-pattern, nonimative of the general milieu, and more apt to have self-generated and self-inspired interests. Often, these interests are definitely foreign to his heritage and the e*f*u has had to be stubborn in order to develop and maintain them.

In some cases, e*f*u represents an intellectual or intellectualizing adjustment in which the individual has become indifferent to, or ignored, the development of social-interpersonal skills. He has not only developed mental discipline, but he has learned to be evaluated and probing. In both instances, it is the modification of socially conforming and interpersonal activity that differentiates the e*f*u for the e*f*a*. [IcRcUc]

Much of the time, the e*f*u feels that he is being creative; in fact, he is usually able to be productive at the level expected from his intellectual capacity. He is rarely an imaginative person because he guards against autistic tendencies. He is likely to be a very effective mental technician, and can be proficient in such diverse areas as physics, economics, and music theory. It is probable that some composers come from this cluster, and it is relatively certain that the best computer programmers are found here. At middle and lower ranges of intelligence, the most precise typist, machine operators, and stock or inventory clerks are found.

A primary characteristic of the e*f*u is his social-interpersonal insulation. The true e*f*u makes only the most superficial effort to develop social versatility. Shyness is often present, but in most instances, the e*f*u is actually indifferent to social pressures. Living alone, being self-sufficient and self-reliant, are non-stressful. Unlike the e*ru, [IcRuUu] who is generally self centered and immature, the e*f*u has a sense of responsibility and a genuine involvement with his interests. What he is doing is all important to him; he expects to gain security for the quality of his productivity. Since he is likely to be ignored -- he rarely is disliked and teased as is the i*f*u [EcRcUu] -- he becomes very settled and preoccupied with his own activity. He has little interest in authority or prestige positions, but he is quite threatened by any change of pattern, whether this be a move to a new apartment, or a requirement to change or modify his work habits. He usually finds his interests early in life and is consistent in his preparation; once established, he is stable and long-lasting.

Among women, this pattern will produce many highly effective nuns, nurses, and office managers. However, it is a characteristic of the e*f*u women to be more effective in the rituals, procedures, and techniques of her calling than in the nuances of compassion and human understanding. She has a strong sense of responsibility, but is often cold, detached, and overly rational. This form of adjustment, however, does not have the defensive cruelty or dogmatic authoritarianism of the i*f* patterns.

The primary problems of the e*f*u stem from his consistency and his inner tension. As indicated above, once a course of behavior is determined, the e*f*u is not only persistent, but resistant to change. The appropriateness of his interests, then, is an important ingredient in his ultimate adjustment. If his interest is inappropriate or unrealistic, he is inclined to persevere in spite of setbacks, obvious incompetence, or failure. The Greenwich Village poet, painter, musician, actor, or author who persists in the face of continuous failure and an lack of talent is an example. As he grows older, the e*f*u becomes more delusional and an eccentric, and an although he rarely becomes a true schizophrenic, he often becomes more bizarre, eccentric, and an seclusive; most always, however, he is able to maintain himself. Alcoholism, particularly solitary drinking, may occur here; drug addiction ranging from Benzedrine (because it makes him feel alert and active) to hallucinogens (because they make him feel creative and imaginative) is also common. Insomnia, restlessness, and nervous mannerisms are also evident. Headaches, produced by inner tension, depression in the form of apathy, mental confusion, and blocking are also common.