*Parts*, in [[IFS]] terms, are subpersonalities or aspects of a person: [[The mind is a collection of parts]]. But really, [[Parts are people]]. Each part has its own thoughts, feelings, personality, perspective, beliefs, interests, capabilities, and memories. [[Having parts is adaptive]]. There are two main types of parts: [[Protectors]] and [[Exiles]]. Within the category of protectors are [[Managers]] and [[Firefighters]], but [[The distinction between Managers and Firefighters isn't that important]]. [[Parts can be constrained and burdened]]. Protectors have conditioned, and often harmful, roles, whereas exiles have burdens of trauma. But [[Parts are not their roles or burdens]]. [[Parts are valuable]]. They have useful and unique capabilities and they want to help: [[Protectors have positive intent]]. [[Parts interact in a system]]. Some parts work together and others fight against each other: [[Parts become polarized to counter extremes]]. Beneath these parts is a person's true [[Self]]. But [[You can become blended with the perspective of parts]]. Parts want: - Safety - Love - Connection - To relax and not have to work so hard and worry all the time - Control: [[Burdened protectors want control]] - To be understood - To be welcomed: [[All parts are welcome]] - To be healed and unburdened - To be a part of the team