Objectives

Following the psychoanalytic interpretation of otherness as something not only outer but also inner, the presentation focuses on the connection between identity and intra-individual variability in perception of Self. Otherness of others, as well as one’s otherness, can evoke a wide variety of emotions, positive as well as negative. One of the methods allowing to study the dynamics of intra-individual processes such as emotions is experience sampling.

We hypothesize that the degree of intra-individual variability in Self-perception is connected to the sense of identity. Moreover, that impairment in Self-functioning and identity is associated with prevailing negative feelings to oneself.

Methods

The Semi-Structured Interview for Personality Functioning DSM-5 (STiP-5.1) assessing the Self-functioning (Identity and Self-direction); Ego Identity Scale. We collected participants’ reports of emotions toward themselves (disgust, anger, regret, respect) every other day for 30 days.

Results

We analyze data from 109 participants in two groups (general population and personality disorders sample). Both groups will be compared in their degree of within-person variability in emotions toward oneself, perception of Self, and sense of identity.

Conclusions

Understanding the relationship of intrapersonal variability in experiencing oneself and identity could serve as one part of gaining more insight into the assumption that the capability to tolerate one’s otherness and having a sense of identity is vital for tolerating the otherness of others.