Discrete Self Model
The unspoken assumption behind most of the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders): that every human is a neatly bounded, fully knowable individual who can be diagnosed like a glitchy toaster.
Used to justify labeling complex, context-driven human behavior as “disordered” while ignoring trauma, systems, relationships, and late-stage capitalism.
Symptoms may include:
• Taking your emotions personally
• Believing your thoughts are facts
• Assuming “normal” exists
• Diagnosing others on TikTok
Used to justify labeling complex, context-driven human behavior as “disordered” while ignoring trauma, systems, relationships, and late-stage capitalism.
Symptoms may include:
• Taking your emotions personally
• Believing your thoughts are facts
• Assuming “normal” exists
• Diagnosing others on TikTok
Therapist: “Sounds like you might meet criteria for 296.89.”
Patient: “Or maybe I’m just rejecting the Discrete Self Model.”
Therapist: “…I’ll need to consult the DSM-6 for that.”
Patient: “Or maybe I’m just rejecting the Discrete Self Model.”
Therapist: “…I’ll need to consult the DSM-6 for that.”
Discrete Self Model by seeing March 30, 2025
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