The Atlas personality, drawing on the myth of the giant Atlas from Greek mythology upholding the world, is typically found in a person who felt obliged during childhood to take on responsibilities (extending beyond normal household chores or looking after siblings) such as providing psychological support to parental figures, often in a chaotic family situation.
They are thus liable to develop a pattern of compulsive caregiving in later life.
The result in adult life can be a personality devoid of fun,
and feeling the weight of the world on their shoulders.
Depression and anxiety,
as well as over-sensitivity to others
and an inability to assert their own needs, are further identifiable characteristics.
In addition, there may also be an underlying rage against a parent for not having provided love, and for exploiting the child for their own narcissistic needs.
While Atlas personalities may appear to function adequately as adults,
they may be pervaded with a sense of emptiness and be lacking in vitality.
(Write-up sourced from wikipedia.)
