ACT for PTSD: Consistent Invalidation, Self-Identity, and Self-As-Context
Booz Allen
Department of Veterans Affairs
Yale University
University of Nevada, Reno
Key Points
- One’s own self-identity can be shaped by an experience of trauma.
- Self-as-context work is key to finding a more workable, authentic sense of self.
- Survivors of sexual trauma or repeated childhood abuse can have their sense of self completely invalidated over time.
- Help them develop a sense of self that is transcendent and shaped by awareness of individual values and experiences.
- Some trauma survivors may overidentify with their trauma history status.
- Developing awareness of a transcendent sense of self can be key to moving forward.
Materials Downloads
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Transcript
Working on self-as-context is an important aspect of therapy with individuals diagnosed with PTSD. For instance, individuals who are chronically sexually abused and neglected as children and often repeatedly revictimized thereafter can have a difficult time locating a transcendent constant observer self that experiences emotions and thoughts.
Batten, S. V., Orsillo, S. M., & Walser, R. D. (2005). Acceptance and mindfulness-based approaches to the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder. In S. M. Orsillo & L. Roemer (Eds.), Acceptance and mindfulness-based approaches to anxiety: Conceptualization and treatment (p. 241–269). Springer Science + Business Media.,Orsillo, S. M., & Batten, S. V. (2005). Acceptance and commitment therapy in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder. Behavior Modification, 29(1), 95–129.
An inherent aspect of being sexually victimized is the invalidation of one’s internal experiences. For instance, the perpetrator may force the client to engage in activities against her will, sometimes making false declarations about her thoughts and feelings at the same time like, “You really wanted to have sex,” or “You’re enjoying this.”
Batten, S. V., Orsillo, S. M., & Walser, R. D. (2005). Acceptance and mindfulness-based approaches to the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder. In S. M. Orsillo & L. Roemer (Eds.), Acceptance and mindfulness-based approaches to anxiety: Conceptualization and treatment (p. 241–269). Springer Science + Business Media.,Orsillo, S. M., & Batten, S. V. (2005). Acceptance and commitment therapy in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder. Behavior Modification, 29(1), 95–129.