As a result of identity diffusion, the person may feel like theydont really know who they are.
They may have trouble distinguishing where someone elses identity ends and theirs begins.
Aimee Daramus, PsyD
Its very painful not to have a sense of who you are.
Igor Alecsander / Getty Images
Adolescence as a developmental period is a time of identity formation, says Dr. Kamody.
Reasons Why You Don’t Know Yourself
These are some of the potential causes of identity diffusion.
Most people change their surface-level behaviors with different groups of people, says Dr. Daramus.
For example, you may behave a little differently with colleagues than with friends or family members.
Known asconformity, this is fairly common behavior.
They may feel like theres a huge void in them, which is temporarily filled when they role-model others.
Lack of Emotional Regulation
People experiencing identity diffusion may also havedifficulty regulating their emotions.
Someone with identity diffusion may have very little control over very big emotions, says Dr. Daramus.
Abusive Relationships
Identity diffusion can also cause people to develop unhealthy and potentiallyabusive relationships.
As a result, they can be easily manipulated and vulnerable to abuse, says Dr. Daramus.
Research shows that identity diffusion is linked to an increased risk of self-harm.
Identity-Building Activities
Treatment can also involve activities that can help people build their identity and sense ofself.
2021;12:683288. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2021.683288
National Institute of Mental Health.Borderline personality disorder.
The phenomenology of identity diffusion in patients with borderline personality disorder: a qualitative study.J Pers Disord.
