Sense of Identity – in a State of Mind…

Identity crises are more likely in individuals with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).

Each of these conditions can contribute to difficulties in forming a stable sense of self, though the mechanisms and manifestations vary.

Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) often struggle with identity due to their unique social-communication styles and the need for strict routines and structures. Their identity is often closely tied to their special interests and values, which can lead to a rigid sense of self that may be difficult to adapt or change.

• References:
• Baron-Cohen, S. (2008). Autism: The Empathizing-Systemizing (E-S) Theory. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1148(1), 68-80. doi: 10.1196/annals.1414.011
• Hill, E. L., Berthoz, S., & Frith, U. (2004). Brief report: Cognitive flexibility in autism and Asperger syndrome. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 34(6), 667-675. doi: 10.1007/s10803-004-5297-0

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD is characterized by impulsivity and emotional dysregulation, which can make it challenging for individuals to maintain a consistent sense of self. The constant need to inhibit impulsive responses and manage emotional reactions can lead to feelings of instability and confusion about one’s identity.

• References:
• Barkley, R. A. (2015). Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Handbook for Diagnosis and Treatment. Guilford Publications.
• Solanto, M. V., Marks, D. J., Wasserstein, J., & Mitchell, K. (2010). Developmental changes in timing and time perception across the lifespan. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 19(3), 183-188. doi: 10.1177/0963721410370271

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD, especially complex PTSD (C-PTSD), can significantly impact an individual’s sense of self. Emotional flashbacks and pervasive negative changes in cognition and mood can lead to a fragmented sense of identity. Individuals with C-PTSD may experience intense feelings of shame, guilt, and a distorted self-view, making it difficult to form a stable sense of self.

• References:
• Cloitre, M., Stovall-McClough, K. C., Nooner, K., Zorbas, P., Cherry, S., Jackson, C. L., … & Ganzz, L. (2011). Treatment of complex PTSD: Results of the ISTSS expert clinician survey on best practices. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 24(1), 1-11. doi: 10.1002/jts.20598
• Herman, J. L. (1992). Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence—From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror. Basic Books.

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

BPD is marked by profound identity disturbance, often described as a “markedly and persistently unstable self-image or sense of self.” Individuals with BPD may feel non-existent, like chameleons changing their identity based on circumstances, or have difficulties understanding where they end and others begin. This instability can lead to significant challenges in forming and maintaining a cohesive sense of self.

• References:
• Linehan, M. M. (1993). Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder. Guilford Press.
• Zanarini, M. C., & Frankenburg, F. R. (1997). Pathways to the development of borderline personality disorder. Journal of Personality Disorders, 11(1), 93-104. doi: 10.1521/pedi.1997.11.1.93

Comorbidity and Overlapping Symptoms

The likelihood of an identity crisis increases when these conditions co-occur. For example, women with ADHD and BPD have been shown to have the highest levels of neglect in their histories, and the combination of these conditions can lead to severe impairments in identity formation and management. Similarly, individuals with C-PTSD and BPD may experience overlapping symptoms such as emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and self-harm, which can further complicate the development of a stable identity.

• References:
• Miller, C. J., Nigg, J. T., & Miller, T. (2

Briefly

The likelihood of an identity crisis is high in individuals with ASC, ADHD, PTSD, and BPD, especially when these conditions co-occur. Each condition contributes to difficulties in forming a stable sense of self through different mechanisms, and the combination of these conditions can exacerbate these challenges. Proper diagnosis and tailored treatment approaches are crucial for addressing these issues and helping individuals develop a more stable and coherent sense of self.