Symbolic conceptualization of family relationships using ornithomorphic symbols in the projective "Bird test"

The mythologisation of the image of the bird first appeared in the Paleolithic Era and has continued, through the Neolithic Era and the Bronze Age, into modern times. In this article the image of a bird is regarded as one of the most ancient of archetypal symbols to be found in mythology, folklore and literature around the world. In terms of symbolism the bird is an incarnation of particular desires and qualities. Over time different birds have come to be associated with specific human traits. The ornithomorphic model of family relationships is viewable through the prism of the projective Bird Test (E.G. Abakarova, 2014), in which analysis is based on a drawing and written description (lexical analysis). Representative sampling of contexts enables us to identify patterns by which we can subsequently classify metaphorical and psychological changes. The images of some birds in particular are closely associated with a predisposition towards or rejection of family relationships and the family per se. Drawings of doves, swans, geese and ducks are taken to symbolize ideal family relationships, while an image of a nest symbolizes the ability to create a happy family. The high frequency and productivity of the results produced by these ornithomorphic symbols, as well as their strong positive metaphorical meaning, home and family are regarded as values that are shared, meaningful and indestructible.