Self-concept integration and differentiation in subclinical individuals with dissociation proneness. Issue 6 (2nd November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chiu, Chui-De; Chang, Jen-Ho; Hui, Chin Ming
• Is Part Of: Self and identity. Volume 16:Issue 6(2017)
• Page Start: 664
• Page End: 683
• Publication Date: 2017-11-02
• Subjects: Dissociation -- psychological trauma -- self-organization -- self-concept clarity -- self-complexity; Self -- Periodicals; Identity (Psychology) -- Periodicals; Cognition -- Periodicals; Motivation (Psychology) -- Periodicals; 155.205
• DOI: 10.1080/15298868.2017.1296491
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1529-8868

Abstract

Abstract: Dissociative pathology is characterized by an altered sense of self. Still, it remains unclear (a) whether the altered sense of self is also associated with non-pathological dissociation as well and (b) whether this potential association is an intrinsic connection or a consequence of other related constructs, including childhood trauma. This study addresses this question by examining how self-concept organization may differ among individuals with different levels of dissociation proneness. The structure of self-concept was operationalized by various indexes of self-concept integration and differentiation. Results showed that individuals high in dissociation proneness have lower self-concept clarity and compartmentalize self-aspects with more polarized evaluations. Notably, the association between dissociation proneness and evaluative self-compartmentalization held after controlling for childhood trauma, anxiety, and depression. This characteristic self-concept organization can be an attribute of non-pathological dissociation.