A psychobiography of Carl Gustav Jung: an ego development perspective

Purpose The life and work of Carl Gustav Jung (1875–1961) have been described, analysed and interpreted many times, and several psychobiographical accounts have been written about him and his work. This psychobiographical study, however, aims at exploring his development based on Loevinger’s (1966, 1979) developmental stages. Design/methodology/approach The research methodology is qualitative and uses a hermeneutical interpretative research approach to psychobiography. Jung was purposefully sampled based on his extraordinary life as a psychiatrist. In the study, the authors collected primary and secondary data on Jung from the public domain and analysed the data through content analysis. Qualitative quality criteria were applied; ethical considerations were highlighted and limitations outlined. Findings Jung’s life developed through the stages of ego development until the integrative stage, which very few individuals usually reach. The integrative stage was strongly influenced by meaning-making and integration through intra-personal growth and development. Research limitations/implications The study uses a psychobiographical single case study approach and cannot be generalised. It also contributes only very specific aspects of Jung’s life. Practical implications The psychobiography provides insights into C. G. Jung’s life through the application of Loevinger’s development theory. Originality/value This psychobiography is of value to individuals who are interested in the life of Carl Gustav Jung as well as in Loevinger’s stages of ego development.