The father of the vampire
Dracula, the Vampire Count, has become one of the most popular of archetypes. The novel Dracula tells the story of a vampire man in search of physical immortality. But he can only live forever if he feeds on human blood. In this story, blood represents the energy that flows throughout the body, and which gives us life. Although this premise seems preposterous to some, the story originated in author Bram Stoker's historical research, fertile imagination, and unique genius.

Vampire people
Some people perpetuate the energy pattern of vampirism; they feed on the emotional, sexual, physical, and mental energy of others. It goes without saying that they do not feed directly on other people's blood, as did Count Dracula. Rather, they play on other people's weaknesses to subject them to their whims.

Vampirisim is related to the inner and outer projection of a person's own denials and inhibitions. In particular, it reflects everything that is feared and repressed in the most instinctive part of the self. Inside vampire personalities, there is both a consciousness of lacking, and a desire to obtain that which they lack. These traits may stem from certain negative social conditionings vampire-types may have had to endure: mistreatment, lack of self esteem, and rejection, sometimes even from their own parents. One way to understand vampire people is to think of some sort of "monster" dwelling inside a person, forever unsatisfied, always in need of something external for survival. This monster cannot sustain itself or give anything to others.

Emotional vampires
Emotional vampires often appear lonely or lacking in affection. Playing up this vulnerability is precisely the way in which they ensnare victims. But their hunger is impossible to satisfy. Extremely voracious, they desire to possess other people.

In some ways, emotional vampires are like people who suffer from depression, alcoholics, or drug addicts. You will understand their mindset better if you think of those friends who are forever talking about their problems but never listen to yours. They might respond to something you've said by saying,"It's exactly the same with me," and go on to tell their story without really acknowledging your words.

Sexual vampires
Sexual vampires are those people who try to establish a sexual relationship with somebody but only at a very shallow level, avoiding any kind of deep or affectionate rapport. They are looking only for the satisfaction of their instinctive desires. They treat their partners as if they were disposable. After making love, their sexual partners are left with a void inside.

Sexual vampires don't usually get in touch with their victims again. If they do so, it is only on their terms, and they refuse to explain what their true feelings are. And if they do come back, it is only for the sake of sex.

There is only one way to protect ourselves from vampires: recover the love for ourselves and focus on the light that lives within us, where there is no room or shelter for the shadows.