Object relations theorists argue that the origin of what we are calling personality type, or the false self system, lies in the individual's complex reaction to the environmental frustration of early intinctual needs.  Among these instinctual needs are an inherent need for relationship, and a competing need for individuation, or separation, from sustaining relationships. 

Human needs are complex, however, and many things may go wrong in the parent-child relationship.  When things go wrong and a need remains unsatisfied or overgratified, an adaptational or compensatory response comes into play.  If the need remains unmet over time, the adaptational response may become fixed.  It is also true that overgratification of a given need may lead to fixation.  Character, or one’s personality type develops out of this fixed response to an unsatisfied or overindulged interpersonal need.