Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

In ego psychology, what major feature distinguishes a person diagnosed as schizophrenic in dealing with separation individuation?

1. Inability to form relationships

2. Fear of social interactions

3. Fear of the destruction of the self

4. Desire for attention from others

The correct answer is: Fear of the destruction of the self

The major feature that distinguishes a person diagnosed with schizophrenia in dealing with separation individuation is the fear of the destruction of the self. In the framework of ego psychology, separation individuation is a critical developmental process where an individual learns to distinguish their self from others, establishing both autonomy and identity. For individuals with schizophrenia, this process can be profoundly disrupted. The fear of the destruction of the self reflects a deep-seated anxiety about losing one's identity or sanity, which can be particularly pronounced in the context of schizophrenia. This fear may manifest as paranoia or delusional thinking, where the individual feels that they are losing control over their thoughts or are under attack from external forces. Such fears can significantly hinder their ability to form a coherent and stable sense of self needed for healthy relationships and social interactions. In contrast, the other options reflect different aspects of interpersonal dynamics and anxiety but do not directly address the specific psychological challenges inherent to the separation individuation process in schizophrenia. Therefore, the fear of the destruction of the self captures the essence of the difficulties experienced by those with this diagnosis in navigating their identity and relationships.