Abstract

This study examines the links between the imaginary of young Quebecers (9 to 12 years old), their interpersonal styles (competition with self, competition against others, collaboration), and their socio-economic status, by using the AT.9 (Archetypal Test with 9 Elements). In this test, developed within the framework of Gilbert Durand’s “Anthropological Structures of the Imaginary", participants are asked to draw, using nine symbolic elements, and then write a story based on their drawing. Drawings/stories are later categorized in one of three mythical universes: heroic, mystical, or synthetic. The results obtained from 109 young Quebecers are somewhat comparable to those obtained with thousands of European adults. Competition with self, collaboration, and a higher socioeconomic standing are associated with a more elaborated mythical (i.e. synthetic) universe. The educational and clinical implications of these results are discussed.