Exploring the Mechanisms of Psychological Identity in Women Survivors of Chronic Emotional Abuse: A Phenomenological Study
Keywords:
Psychological identity, emotional abuse, women survivors, identity reconstruction, qualitative research, phenomenologyAbstract
This study aimed to explore the psychological identity mechanisms in women survivors of chronic emotional abuse to gain an in-depth understanding of their lived experiences and identity reconstruction processes. A qualitative descriptive phenomenological approach was employed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 22 women survivors residing in Tehran. Purposeful sampling was used, and interviews continued until theoretical saturation. Data were analyzed using Nvivo software and thematic analysis. Five main mechanisms in psychological identity reconstruction emerged: self-redefinition, emotional independence, recovery of social roles, increased self-awareness, and self-compassion. Additionally, processes such as rebuilding trust in others, managing interpersonal boundaries, meaning-making of painful experiences, and psychological resilience were identified as key factors strengthening psychological identity. The study demonstrated that psychological identity in women survivors of emotional abuse is a dynamic and multidimensional process requiring continuous redefinition and reconstruction. Understanding these internal mechanisms can aid in designing targeted and effective psychological interventions and enhance the mental health of this vulnerable population.
Downloads
Downloads
Published
Submitted
Revised
Accepted
Issue
Section
License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.