What is dedoublement fonctionnel?

Dedoublement fonctionnel, or functional dedoubling, is a concept in psychoanalysis that refers to the psychological mechanism where an individual experiences a split in their sense of self or identity. This can manifest as a separation between the conscious and unconscious aspects of the self, often leading to a dual experience of reality. It is often discussed in the context of trauma or complex psychological states, where the person may compartmentalize their feelings or experiences to cope with distressing emotions. Ultimately, this mechanism can affect an individual's behavior, relationships, and overall mental health.