A Noticeably and Persistently Unstable Sense of Self
Identity disturbance describes an inconsistent or incoherent sense of self.
It is associated withborderline personality disorder, as identity disturbance is one of the criteria for the condition.
Research on identity disturbance is ongoing.
Verywell / Nez Riaz
This article discusses identity disturbance, what it is, and what causes it.
It also looks at the treatments that are available for people with the condition.
A strong sense of self helps you maintain relationships and commitments and behave in predictable and consistent ways.
It is not clear whether it is only associated with borderline personality disorder.
More research is needed.
A person with identity disturbance may behave inconsistently because of their difficulty in maintaining identity.
Of course, its natural to have changing beliefs, behaviors, and commitments throughout life.
Causes of Identity Disturbance
Personality disorders are oftenstigmatized, and identity disturbance is no exception.
Identity disturbance is one of the criteria for diagnosing borderline personality disorder.
Thus, it is difficult to parse out what exactly causes identity disturbance.
Some causes of borderline personality disorder might also be shared in identity disturbance since the two are intertwined.
Causes of borderline personality disorder include:
Overall, the exact cause of identity disturbance is not well understood.
Summary
Identity disturbance is a persistent and noticeably unstable sense of self.
It is a diagnostic criteria for borderline personality disorder.
People with identity disturbance can have trouble maintaining relationships, jobs, and a social life.
The condition may be treated with psychotherapy.
Zandersen M, Parnas J.Identity disturbance, feelings of emptiness, and the boundaries of the schizophrenia spectrum.Schizophr Bull.
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National Institute of Mental Health.Borderline personality disorder.
