Work Text:
[TABLE OF CONTENTS]
01| introduction
02| relationship approach
03| attachment style proposal
04| extras
greetings to all,
l appreciate the effort and insight in the original analysis. However, 'a like to offer a different perspective on Dazai Osamu's attachment style.
☆ Dazai and Fyodor may be similar but in intellectual terms. Having different MBTIs would give them different things to prioritize psychologically.
READER DISCRETION ADVISED
- Based on the Manga's Perspective
[INTRODUCTION]
Despite Dazai's emotional distance and self-destructive tendencies, labeling him as Fearful-Avoidant doesn't fully capture his character.
Here's why:
1. Emotional Detachment:
Dazai keeps others at a distance, which contributes to his unpredictable and intimidating nature, especially with foes like Mori.
His deep intelligence and past experiences with betrayal have led him to be distrustful. He doesn’t oscillate between wanting connection and pushing people away out of fear—he deliberately keeps people at arm’s length
However, his enduring connection with Chuuya is noteworthy. Even after being apart for years, he still keeps Chuuya's contact and remembers his fighting style. This bond shows a different side of Dazai's relationships, suggesting that he forms meaningful connections in his own strategic way. This strategic approach reflects the mindset of someone who chooses emotional distance because it serves a purpose, rather than out of a fear of intimacy.
2. Self-Destructive Tendencies:
Dazai's self-destructive behavior is a key part of his character and comes from his emotional detachment. His actions reflect a need to control his own vulnerability and align with his nihilistic outlook. This behavior fits with someone who values independence and keeps their emotions hidden. While self-destruction might seem like a cry for connection in the context of Fearful-Avoidant attachment, for Dazai, it seems more rooted in his nihilistic outlook and existential despair.
3. Reluctance to Form Deep Bonds:
Dazai is known for his reluctance to form deep emotional connections. His womanizing and strategic behavior suggest he often prioritizes personal gain over emotional involvement. This indicates a different attachment style than Fearful-Avoidant and highlights his unique way of relating to others.
☆ Which leaves us to ponder on Dazai's relationship style. As a subconscious INTJ (and one in general) it was quite difficult for me to see a possibility of feelings into this analysis (leave my aroace self alone). Nevertheless, I’ve undertaken this analysis to explore every perspective and offer a comprehensive view.
[RELATIONSHIP APPROACH]
In accordance to the analysis laid above, Dazai Osamu is deemed near impossible to sustain a successful relationship.
In the canon world, he has womanizing tendencies and selfish traits.
Such a character would find it challenging to be available for his partner emotionally and intimately (not in the physical sense).
He is inflicted by his own emotional detachment and trust issues to form a meaningful relationship. Even if he does, like with Chuuya, he would in a way that emphasizes independence and emotional distance.
However, Dazai’s actions suggest that he isn’t seeking that kind of emotional connection, and his depression and philosophical beliefs push him towards isolation and control rather than connection and vulnerability.
"No Longer Human", the book has a protagonist (Yozo Oba) which Asagiri most likely got inspired from. From this we can conclude that Dazai (in a one way to simplify this analytical process/see from another perspective) has chronic depression. A person affected by chronic depression has issues forming bonds and commitment.
[ATTACHMENT STYLE PROPOSAL]
Based on Dazai's characteristics, I propose that a Dismissive-Avoidant attachment style may be more fitting than the Fearful-Avoidant style. This style is characterized by a strong preference for independence, emotional distance, and a focus on self-reliance.
Dazai's self-destructive tendencies and strategic relationships align well with this profile, as opposed to the Fearful-Avoidant style, which involves more pronounced fears of intimacy and trust.
[CONCLUSION]
Take care of your children unless you want them to turn out like Dazai Osamu.
[EXTRA]
- Fyodor Dostoyevsky: I agree that Fyodor Dostoyevsky fits the Fearful-Avoidant attachment style. However, he would likely approach relationships with ulterior motives, such as gaining power or maintaining a certain image (appearing like a civilian with a normal life and relationship / family).
- The fact that Mori sees potential in Dazai and made him live, instead of murdering him off—he saw a chance that he would need Dazai in the future, despite Dazai's nihilism and suicidal tendencies.