Positive Disintegration
Positive disintegration is the foundational concept in Dąbrowski’s theory. It describes the dissolution of lower-level psychological structures—social conformity, egocentric values, automatic responses—in order to make way for more conscious, autonomous development.
This process often includes emotional crises, internal conflict, and psychological tension. Crucially, these are not seen as pathological but as necessary steps in personality evolution.
Features include:
• Inner conflict as a catalyst for growth
• Rejection of socially accepted norms in favor of personal ideals
• Movement toward authenticity and autonomy
• Increased capacity for empathy, reflection, and moral reasoning
This process often includes emotional crises, internal conflict, and psychological tension. Crucially, these are not seen as pathological but as necessary steps in personality evolution.
Features include:
• Inner conflict as a catalyst for growth
• Rejection of socially accepted norms in favor of personal ideals
• Movement toward authenticity and autonomy
• Increased capacity for empathy, reflection, and moral reasoning