By Shannon Bussnick, LSW
Our journey of self-discovery often leads us to question, “Who am I, really?”
As we peel back the layers of our personality, much like an onion, we uncover the intricate and multifaceted nature of our identity.
Multifaceted vs. Singular Personalities
A multifaceted personality is characterized by having diverse layers within one’s identity, displaying varying traits and behaviors in different contexts.
In contrast, a singular personality is marked by consistent and stable traits across various situations.
Embracing our multifaceted selves is an ongoing process of discovery and acceptance. It involves navigating through the complexity of our personalities, each layer revealing new aspects of who we are.
The Multifaceted Self and Mental Health
Distinguishing between a healthy multifaceted personality and symptoms of mental health conditions, such as Dissociative Identity Disorder (once known as multiple personality disorder) and Schizophrenia, is crucial for understanding our self-identity.
1. Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID):
• Distinct Identity States: DID is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identity states or “alters” within an individual.
Each alter may have its own name, memories, behaviors, and even voice. These identity states can significantly differ from each other and may not be aware of one another.
• Memory Gaps: One of the key features of DID is significant memory gaps between identity states. When one identity state is active, the individual may have no recollection of events that occurred while another alter was in control.
• Involuntary Switching: Switching between identity states in DID often occurs involuntarily and is typically triggered by stress or trauma. Individuals with DID may not have control over when these switches happen.
2. Schizophrenia:
• Hallucinations and Delusions: Schizophrenia is characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations (perceiving things that aren’t there) and delusions (false beliefs). These symptoms can lead to a disconnection from reality.
• Disorganized Thinking: Schizophrenia can result in disorganized thinking, speech, and behavior. Individuals with schizophrenia may have difficulty organizing their thoughts and may exhibit unpredictable behavior.
Similarities with Multifaceted Personality:
• Both DID and schizophrenia can involve different “selves” or states of mind, which may appear to mimic the concept of a multifaceted personality.
• In both cases, there may be a sense of shifting or changing aspects of oneself.
Key Differences:
• DID involves distinct and separate identity states with significant memory gaps, while a multifaceted personality does not typically involve such a dramatic shift.
• Schizophrenia is characterized by symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking leading to a disconnection from reality, which are not part of a multifaceted personality.
Seeking Professional Mental Health Guidance
It’s important to note that these mental health conditions are diagnosed by mental health professionals based on specific criteria outlined in diagnostic manuals like the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and using a biopsychosocial approach.
If someone is concerned about their experiences and whether they may have a mental health condition, it’s essential to seek professional evaluation and diagnosis.
A multifaceted personality, while complex, is generally a normal variation of personality and should not be confused with these clinical conditions.
Causes of a Multifaceted Personality?
Several factors can contribute to the development of a multifaceted personality versus a more singular, consistent one:
1. Personality Traits: Individuals with a multifaceted personality may possess traits such as openness to experience, flexibility, and adaptability, allowing them to navigate various social situations and contexts with ease. In contrast, those with a more singular personality may exhibit traits such as stability, consistency, and a strong sense of self.
2. Life Experiences: Upbringing, cultural background, and life experiences can play a significant role. Exposure to different environments, cultures, and social interactions can foster the development of a multifaceted personality. On the other hand, individuals with a more stable and consistent upbringing may develop a singular personality.
3. Psychological Factors: Psychological factors such as attachment styles and coping strategies can have an impact on personality development. People who have faced early trauma or adverse experiences may experience interruptions in the development of their brain chemistry and structure and thus acquire coping mechanisms that result in a more fragmented sense of self.
Individuals with secure attachments and adaptive coping skills may develop a more stable and consistent personality, following a more natural personality progression.
4. Genetics: Genetic factors can also contribute to personality traits and variations. While genetics alone may not determine personality entirely, they can predispose individuals to certain traits or tendencies that influence the development of a multifaceted or singular personality, as well as clinical mental health conditions.
5. Social Environment: The social environment, including family dynamics, peer relationships, and cultural influences, can shape personality development, too. Exposure to diverse social contexts and relationships can encourage adaptability and flexibility, contributing to a multifaceted personality. Conversely, a more stable and consistent social environment may reinforce a singular personality.
Overall, the interplay of these factors can result in the formation of a multifaceted or singular personality, highlighting the complexity of human personality development.
Considering Specific Personality Frameworks
In addition to understanding the multifaceted nature of personality, exploring specific personality frameworks can provide valuable insights into its development.
When looking at personality development, here are some key theories to consider:
1. Freud’s Theory of Id, Ego, and Superego:
Freud proposed that personality is shaped by the interplay between three components: the id (primitive instincts), the ego (rational mediator), and the superego (moral conscience). He emphasized the importance of overcoming challenges in each developmental phase to avoid personality disorders later in life.
2. Piaget’s Theory of Cognitive Development:
Piaget identified four stages of cognitive development, each characterized by distinct ways of thinking. He believed that children’s cognitive abilities influence their perception of the world, which in turn shapes personality development.
3. Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral Development:
Building on Piaget’s work, Kohlberg proposed a six-stage theory of moral development. He emphasized the role of moral reasoning in shaping personality, suggesting that the process of making moral decisions contributes to overall personality development.
4. Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development:
Erikson expanded on Freud’s theory by focusing on social rather than pleasure stimuli. He proposed eight stages of psychosocial development, with each stage presenting a unique challenge related to social relationships. Erikson believed that overcoming these challenges was essential for healthy personality development throughout life, not solely during infancy and childhood.
Theories can help us understand the intricacies of personality development. By taking into account various factors such as cognitive development, moral reasoning, and social interactions, we can gain a deeper understanding of what contributes to the formation of a complex personality type.
Additionally, it helps us identify the presence of a clinical mental health condition, especially a personality disorder.
Communicating Our Multifaceted Nature
Effectively communicating the different aspects of our multifaceted nature is key to developing deeper understanding and connections with others. It’s about embracing and sharing the full spectrum of who we are.
Effectively communicating and embracing the multidimensional self involves:
1. Self-Acceptance: Embrace all aspects of yourself, including the different facets that make up your personality. Recognize that each facet contributes to the richness of your identity and is worthy of acceptance.
2. Clarity and Honesty: Be clear and honest with yourself and others about the various aspects of your personality. Transparency fosters authenticity and allows others to understand and appreciate the complexity of your identity.
3. Empathy and Patience: Understand that not everyone may immediately grasp the complexity of your multidimensional self. Practice empathy and patience when communicating with others, especially if they have difficulty understanding or accepting certain aspects of your personality.
4. Analogies and Examples: Use analogies and real-life examples to help others understand the different facets of your personality. Comparing your multifaceted nature to different roles or scenarios can make complex concepts more relatable and accessible. This is where the onion example can be a helpful visual.
5. Open Dialogue: Foster open and ongoing dialogue with those close to you about your multifaceted nature. Encourage questions, curiosity, and discussion, creating a safe space for exploring and understanding each other’s identities.
6. Normalize Differences: Help others recognize that having a multifaceted nature is normal and common. By normalizing differences in personality and behavior, you can reduce stigma and promote acceptance of diversity.
7. Lead by Example: Embrace your multidimensional self openly and unapologetically, leading by example for others to do the same. Your confidence and self-acceptance can inspire others to embrace their own complexity and authenticity.
8. Practice Boundaries: While it’s important to share and communicate different aspects of yourself, also recognize the importance of boundaries. Not everyone needs to know every detail of your identity, and it’s okay to set boundaries around what you choose to share.
By practicing these strategies, you can effectively communicate and embrace the multidimensional self, fostering deeper understanding, connection, and acceptance in your relationships and communities.
Valuing Singular Identities
While we explore the richness of multifaceted personalities, it’s also important to appreciate the strengths of singular identities, which provide clarity and consistency in one’s sense of self.
No matter how our personality manifests, we must remember that our authentic selves are different and contribute to the collective human experience in unique ways.
Conclusion
“Who am I, really?” is a question that prompts us to explore the depths of our identity. Whether you identify with a multifaceted personality or a singular one, each layer you explore or add to contributes to your unique story—highlighting the multi-dimensional, transient world we live in.
Still, there can be a grey area in differentiating between a multifaceted personality vs. that of a personality disorder such as those classified as cluster A, B, and C personality disorders in the DSM-5.
To start with the process of self-reflection, it is important to determine if one’s personality negatively affects daily life and relationships with others. Although some personalities can be intricate and difficult to embrace, a personality disorder can be significantly disruptive and requires specialized care and attention.
Peeling back the layers of one’s self can be a vulnerable experience. Trusting in your support system and confiding in a mental health professional is always recommended.
Questions for discussion:
• Do all multifaceted personality types have a history of adverse experiences or unmet needs?
• Is the ability to shift between states a trauma response for self-protection? A defense mechanism or coping strategy employed for survival?
References
1. Cherry, K. (2023). Personality development. Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/personality-development-2795425
2. Lesley University. (n.d.). Personality development. Retrieved from https://lesley.edu/article/personality-development
3. Gillette, H. (2022). Personality development. Retrieved from https://psychcentral.com/health/personality-development#contributing-factors
4. Mayo Clinic. (2023). Personality disorders. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/personality-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20354463
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