In the Diamond Approach, “aggression” is seen not just as physical harm or violence towards others, but more importantly, as a form of self-aggression. This self-aggression often manifests as self-criticism and self-rejection, particularly when individuals feel vulnerable or deficient.
The concept of aggression is closely tied to the “Strength Essence,” which is seen as the energy that powers the process of self-development and individuation. This Strength Essence is not inherently negative or destructive; rather, it is a life-giving and life-supporting force. Negative connotations and destructive tendencies associated with aggression are seen as emotional reactions resulting from the blockage of the Strength Essence.
In the context of narcissistic disturbances, aggression can take the form of narcissistic rage, hatred, and envy. This is particularly true in severe cases of narcissism, where aggression becomes a central part of the disturbance. However, in less severe cases, the role of aggression may be less central.
The Diamond Approach also discusses the “animal soul,” which is driven by two primary instincts or drives: the aggressive and the libidinal. The aggressive drive includes power and energy directed toward survival, dominance, rivalry, territoriality, etc. When the Strength Essence is blocked, the frustration experienced by the individual can manifest as aggression, anger, rage, and destructiveness.
All of these projections are examples of the obstacle of aggression. We normally think that aggression is about people killing or hurting other people. But for people who are on the inner journey, that’s only a very small part of it. The primary form of aggression for those on the path is their aggression toward themselves. We don’t allow ourselves to be open and vulnerable, to be where we are, because whatever we find as primary in that experience of vulnerability is often connected to a feeling of deficiency, and we might attack the hell out of ourselves for it: “You’re no good. You’re not enough. You’ll never amount to anything.” Right away, we become afraid that somebody is going to think those things about us. But why do you always believe that no matter what, somebody’s going to think you’re not good enough? Why can’t you imagine that they might think something else? Is it likely that everyone on Earth is thinking the same thought—that you’re not good enough? Why doesn’t it occur to you that some of them will just think you’re weird? And that others will think you’re naive? No, you believe they will all think you’re not good enough. – A. H. Almaas, The Unfolding Now: Realizing Your True Nature through the Practice of Presence, pg. 64