Recognizing “D’s” Parts
“D” identified her frightened part as a survival mechanism from her childhood. She remembered deeply empathizing with her depressed mother as a child, and wanting to support her. This frightened part helped her to be more vigilant, especially in the face of challenges due to a depressed mother and violent father.
One essential consideration is understanding the intent of this part. Does it continue to warn her of potential dangers? Similarly, is the sad component continually urging her to seek assistance? Upon learning of the structural dissociation model, “D” noted the absence of the cry for help part, overlooking that her sad part was perpetually seeking help. There was a detectable desperation in her presentation, signaling that plea for help.