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Compensation (transcendent function) finds its origins in the delineation of dynamics of the [[complex]].

In 1907 Carl Gustav [[Jung ]] [[notes ]] the pathogenic complex posses a quantum of [[libido ]] which grants it a degree of [[autonomy ]] that is opposed to [[conscious ]] will. Though this [[dynamic ]] has a pathological cast, it conveys the [[essence ]] of what Jung termed compensation; namely, the capacity of the [[unconscious ]] to influence [[consciousness]].

Jung noted the ego [[identifies ]] with a preferred set of adaptive strategies, and thus tends to restrict the range of adaptive response and hamper individuation. In "The Importance of the Unconscious in [[Psychopathology]]" (1914), he introduced the [[idea]], saying, "the principal function of the unconscious is to effect a compensation and to produce a [[balance]]. All extreme conscious tendencies are softened and toned down through a counter-impulse in the unconscious." (1914a). This assertion ascribes a different [[role ]] to unconscious dynamics, i.e. one that is purposive and intelligent, and not restricted solely to wishing.

In 1917, Jung expanded his [[notion ]] of an intelligent unconscious further when he asserted the [[existence ]] of a "supraordinate unconscious" as a common [[human ]] inheritance, viewed as the source of compensatory [[activity]].

Later, Jung referred to compensation as "an inherent [[self ]] regulation in the [[psychic ]] [[apparatus]]." Jung's assertion of an intelligent unconscious culminated in his [[concept ]] of the self (1928a), [[understood ]] as the [[personality]]'s central organizing [[agency ]] that instigated and guided individuation. Paired with the concept of the self, compensation was seen as the core [[process ]] in realizing selfhood.

Given this core [[value]], Jung sought a means to maximize its efficiency and benefits. He termed this means the "transcendent function," described as a joining of the opposing tendencies of conscious and unconscious that would produce a [[synthesis ]] in the [[form ]] of a "uniting [[symbol]]" in [[order ]] to release compensatory [[contents ]] of the unconscious. Jung, noted the transcendent function facilitated a transition from one attitude to [[another ]] and held the person skilled with [[understanding ]] of conscious and unconscious interaction and its [[symbolic ]] products could accelerate individuation.

See also: [[Animus]]-Anima (analytical [[psychology]]); [[Interpretation ]] of [[dreams ]] (analytical psychology); [[Projection ]] and "[[participation ]] mystique" (analytical psychology).[[Bibliography]]