The Disintegrating Self

This insightful exploration of ADHD and autism reveals how these conditions reflect deeper issues of self-regulation. The Disintegrating Self offers valuable perspectives for understanding these challenges.

In The Disintegrating Self, the author delves into the complexities of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and its relationship with autistic spectrum conditions. The narrative posits that these disorders are manifestations of impaired self-regulation and a heightened need for external regulatory support. This exploration is particularly beneficial for individuals grappling with ADHD, as it sheds light on the emotional dysregulation that characterizes the condition. The author emphasizes that those affected often require significant ego-supportive responses from their surroundings while navigating intense emotional experiences such as rage and anxiety.

The book further discusses how many psychotherapy clients may exhibit undiagnosed traits associated with ADHD and autism, which are often viewed as overlapping aspects of the 'mistuned brain.' The author argues that ADHD symptoms, including impulsivity and attentional issues, can sometimes be misinterpreted as borderline or emotionally unstable personality disorders. Importantly, The Disintegrating Self highlights that these challenges stem from brain-based disorders, which, while they may give rise to psychodynamic concerns, are not solely the result of them.

Phil Mollon, a seasoned psychoanalyst and psychotherapist, draws from over forty years of clinical experience to offer a comprehensive examination of these conditions. He integrates psychoanalytic, neurobiological, and psycho-energetic viewpoints, illustrating how classical Freudian concepts, alongside Kohut's self-psychology, can inform effective therapeutic approaches for clients whose sense of self is perpetually at risk of disintegration.