UMI/ProQuest URL	http://80-wwwlib.umi.com/dissertations/fullcit/3106744
PUBLICATION NUMBER	AAT 3106744
TITLE	Eros and transformation: Exploring love in intentional friendship circles
AUTHOR	Milliken, Weston Freeman
DEGREE	PhD
SCHOOL	FIELDING GRADUATE INSTITUTE
DATE	2003
PAGES	371
ADVISER	Seashore, Charles
ISBN
SOURCE	DAI-A 64/09, p. 3503, Mar 2004
SUBJECT	SOCIOLOGY, SOCIAL STRUCTURE AND DEVELOPMENT (0700); PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIAL (0451)
ABSTRACT	“How does Eros affect transformation in intentional friendship circles?” is the research question explored in this dissertation. Group and individual interviews with members of two long-term intentional friendship circles to which the author belongs were the foundation of the research. All interviews were coded for the presence of Eros and an understanding of Eros' effect on personal transformation. Subsequent interviews with professionals who work with groups provided perspective on preliminary research findings. The author's reflections on the group process are also central to the findings as he weaves his own perspectives of the groups' processes with those of the co-participants. The research indicates a strong presence of love in the groups as well as evidence that the groups foment transformation. The intense shadow projection, illumination, and integration that can result from engagement in a mature, intimate Eros relationship was not found to be the central process of transformation in these groups. Rather, the development of trust in engaged relationships over the lifetime of these groups has created an “Erosic Environment” which encourages authentic revelation, honesty, and depth of heartfelt connection, among other characteristics. This Erosic Environment—free from passionate jealousies and heartless judgment and objectification—reinforces a deeper and more authentic revelation of self than is common in the everyday world. The sanctuary of the group provides safe-enough space to risk self-revelation. A member's long-term experience of feeling loved despite revealing his or her true feelings supports being more fully present. Acceptance by others reinforces self-acceptance. It is empowering to feel accepted as one is known intimately, rather than as one acts behind a public facade. Analysis of the data indicates this experience of acceptance contributes to a positive perspective shift regarding a group members' sense of self. This creates a transformation in their ways of engaging with the world.