Self-discrepancy theory suggests that our self-perception can differ from our actual experiences or expectations. This difference can have significant implications for mental health, particularly in clinical settings. In this blog, we'll explore how self-discrepancy is assessed in psychological evaluations and why it matters for mental health diagnoses.

What is Self-Discrepancy?

Self-discrepancy refers to the gap between how we see ourselves and how we believe we should be. There are three main types:

• Actual Self: Who you are right now.
• Ideal Self: Who you want to be.
• Ought Self: Who you think you should be based on obligations or societal expectations.

Why is Self-Discrepancy Important?

Understanding self-discrepancy can help identify emotional distress and guide treatment options. For example, a large gap between the actual self and ideal self may lead to feelings of inadequacy or depression. Similarly, discrepancies between actual self and ought self might result in anxiety or guilt.

Assessing Self-Discrepancy in Clinical Settings

Self-discrepancy can be assessed through various methods during psychological evaluations:

1. Self-Report Questionnaires: These are commonly used tools where individuals rate their actual, ideal, and ought selves on various dimensions like traits, goals, or behaviors. Examples include:

• The Self-Discrepancy Scale (SDS)
• The Ideal and Ought Self Scale

2. Interviews: Clinicians may conduct structured or semi-structured interviews to delve deeper into an individual's perceptions of themselves. Questions may explore feelings of success, failure, and personal expectations.

3. Behavioral Assessments: Observing behaviors in different settings can offer insights into discrepancies. For example, a person may present as confident in social settings but feel inadequate in personal reflections.

Real-Life Examples

• Example 1: A student might feel they should be achieving high grades (ought self) while struggling to keep up (actual self). This discrepancy can lead to anxiety and stress.
• Example 2: An employee might see themselves as a team leader (ideal self) but often feels overshadowed by colleagues (actual self). This gap could result in feelings of low self-esteem.

How Self-Discrepancy Relates to Mental Health Diagnoses

Self-discrepancy is linked to various mental health issues:

• Depression: Often tied to a large gap between the actual self and ideal self. Individuals may feel hopeless if they can't reach their aspirations.
• Anxiety Disorders: Heightened discrepancies between the actual self and ought self can lead to excessive worry about not meeting expectations.
• Low Self-Esteem: Individuals who perceive significant gaps between their actual and ideal selves might struggle with self-worth.

Steps to Address Self-Discrepancy in Therapy

1. Identification: Clinicians help patients identify areas of self-discrepancy through assessments.
2. Exploration: Discussing the feelings and thoughts associated with these discrepancies.
3. Goal Setting: Establishing realistic and achievable goals for bridging the gap.
4. Cognitive Restructuring: Challenging negative beliefs tied to self-discrepancies.
5. Skill Development: Building skills to help achieve personal goals and reduce discrepancies.

By recognizing and addressing self-discrepancy, individuals can work towards a more integrated sense of self, ultimately improving their mental health and well-being.