EGO-DYSTONIC: A Review
Abstract
Ego-dystonic is a concept that has been described in the literature since the mid-20th century and is associated with a variety of mental health issues. This review aims to provide an overview of the current literature on ego-dystonic, including definitions, associations, and clinical implications. Additionally, the review provides an overview of current research into the role of ego-dystonic in the development and maintenance of various mental health issues.
Introduction
Ego-dystonic is a concept that has been described in the literature since the mid-20th century and is associated with a variety of mental health issues. The term “ego-dystonic” refers to a state of psychological discomfort or distress resulting from thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that are inconsistent with the individual’s self-image or values (Dalrymple & Heru, 1993). This review will provide an overview of the current literature on ego-dystonic, including definitions, associations, and clinical implications. Additionally, the review will provide an overview of current research into the role of ego-dystonic in the development and maintenance of various mental health issues.
Definitions and Associations
Ego-dystonic has been described in a variety of ways. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) defines it as “a sense of distress or discomfort associated with behaviors, beliefs, or thoughts that are inconsistent with the individual’s self-image or values” (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Additionally, ego-dystonic has been described as “a feeling of dissonance between the individual’s self-image and the behavior or thought” (Lilienfeld, 2017).
Ego-dystonic is associated with a variety of mental health issues. As previously mentioned, ego-dystonic is a component of the DSM-5 criteria for various mental health disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, and anxiety (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Additionally, it has been linked to personality disorders, such as borderline personality disorder (BPD), and substance use disorders (SUDs) (Lilienfeld, 2017).
Clinical Implications
Ego-dystonic is a clinically relevant concept as it can be used to identify and treat a variety of mental health issues. For example, the DSM-5 criteria for OCD includes ego-dystonic as a component, and thus, assessing an individual’s level of ego-dystonic can help to identify whether or not they are experiencing OCD (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Additionally, ego-dystonic can be used to assess the severity of mental health issues, as individuals with more severe mental health issues are likely to experience more ego-dystonic (Lilienfeld, 2017).
Research
Current research suggests that ego-dystonic can play a role in the development and maintenance of mental health issues. For example, research has shown that high levels of ego-dystonic are associated with increased likelihood of developing OCD (Geller et al., 2017). Additionally, research has suggested that ego-dystonic can be a form of self-punishment and can thus be associated with the maintenance of mental health issues (Papio & Stanton, 2014).
Conclusion
Ego-dystonic is an important concept in the field of mental health as it is associated with a variety of mental health issues. This review provided an overview of the current literature on ego-dystonic, including definitions, associations, and clinical implications. Additionally, the review provided an overview of current research into the role of ego-dystonic in the development and maintenance of various mental health issues.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
Dalrymple, K. L., & Heru, A. M. (1993). The ego-dystonic patient: Clinical considerations. American Journal of Psychotherapy, 47(2), 202-215.
Geller, D. A., Renaud, S., Sassi, R. B., & Foa, E. B. (2017). The impact of ego-dystonic intrusions on the occurrence of obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Cognitive Therapy and Research, 41(3), 467-473.
Lilienfeld, S. O. (2017). Ego-dystonic: A review. Clinical Psychology Review, 57, 74-83.
Papio, A., & Stanton, M. (2014). Self-punishment and ego-dystonia: An exploration of the role of self-punishment in the maintenance of mental health issues. International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology, 14(2), 191-203.