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Theory & Psychology
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Splitting in Normal and Pathological Populations from the Perspective of Predictive Control Theory

A Reconceptualization

Andy C. Dean

University of Southern California, adean{at}usc.edu

For the purpose of clarification, the defense mechanism of splitting is delimited into normal forms evident in healthy populations and pathological forms common to some psychopathological populations. Normal splitting is defined as a less extreme variant of pathological splitting which tends to evince more palpable splitting of the other-image compared to the self-image, largely as a result of the reasonably stable selfconcept typical of normal populations. Splitting is investigated within the evolutionary context and is presented as possessing adaptive antecedents which facilitate extrapsychic survival as it relates to intrapsychic survival. A new theory of splitting, entitled predictive control theory (PCT), is proposed which conceptualizes splitting as the facilitation of prediction and perceived control under threatening and/or stressful periods. This framework conceptualizes splitting as working with, rather than against, anxiety to facilitate rapid survival actions. The PCT model is examined in both normal and pathological development and adulthood.

Key Words: control • evolution • normal • prediction • splitting • theory

Theory & Psychology, Vol. 14, No. 1, 29-55 (2004)
DOI: 10.1177/0959354304040197
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