Structural dissociation of the personality: Increasing clinicians' literacy on the hidden phenomenon, based on their experiences

Abstract

The goal of the present study is to empirically explore the potential benefits in using a conceptualization lens that contemplates a Structural Dissociation of Self in Parts, in it's identification and the clinical process of clients who manifest it. Considering the clinical experience of therapists who have developed or applied some variant of this lens and a therapeutic approach adjusted to patients of this nature, this study aims to understand how therapists developed and articulate this conceptualization map, as well as what changed in the Self and in the clinical action after the recognition of structural dissociation of Self in parts.

Through a thematic qualitative analysis of data from 26 participants, the study showed the presence of 3 dimensions related with the use of a variant of the conceptualization lens about the structural dissociation of parts: difficulties experienced in the absence of a conceptualization lens; coping with the phenomenon without training or experience; and the impact of the new conceptualization lens on the therapist and the client.

The findings support the clinical validity of this lens in identifying and interpreting the signs that may be causing difficulties in therapy, providing a better emotional self-regulation for the therapist. Moreover, the findings provide evidence for the utility of this lens towards more effective work, enhancing the changing processes in the clients, and their willingness to collaborate in the therapeutic process.