Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 22, 2025

Involving Individuals with Developmental Language Disorder and Their Parents/Carers in Research Priority Setting
Published on: June 6, 2020
Exploring the Utility and Personal Relevance of Co-Produced Multiplicity Resources with Young People
Sarah Parry1, Zarah Eve1, Gemma Myers1
1Department of Psychology, Manchester Metropolitan University, Brooks Building, Manchester, M15 6GX UK.
Abstract:
Multiplicity, the experience of more than one self in the body, is an under-researched area of young people's mental health. The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of experts-by-experience within a community sample regarding two specific resources: a co-produced self-help guide about multiplicity for adolescents, and a set of guidelines for supporting someone who identifies as 'multiple'. 34 participants (Mage= 22.06, 2.26 SD; 15F, 1M, 18NBG) completed an online survey consisting of open-ended and Likert scale questions to assess the language, utility, transferability and therapeutic impact of the materials. Descriptive statistics and a Foucauldian-informed Narrative Analysis were employed to analyse responses, producing a summary of utility and two narrative chapters. The emergent chapters, 'Breaking the Stigma' and 'Recognising the Many', highlight the need for greater understanding and awareness of multiplicity, with psychoeducation materials viewed as helpful. Inclusive language can reduce stigma and normalise multiplicity as a response to trauma. With greater understanding, practitioners and researchers can collaborate with young people through trauma wise care, providing multiplicity sensitive language and support. Overall, the term 'parts' was viewed as problematic by the participants as it could imply the plural system is not coexisting as a whole. Additionally, opinions varied as to how much diagnostic language could and should be used to describe multiplicity; linguistically and conceptually. Importantly, compassion was seen as particularly essential for younger selves within the system; older in their years and presence, but often more vulnerable within the societies in which the system resides.
Related Concept Videos
Social Foundations of Self IV: Self in Digital Communication
Self Within Cultural Contexts
Impact of Social Context on Individuals
The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison
Emerging Adulthood
Social Exchange Theory

