The syndrome of identity diffusion.

The author delineates the syndrome of identity diffusion as consisting of six clinical features: 1) contradictory character traits, 2) temporal discontinuity in the self, 3) lack of authenticity, 4) feelings of emptiness, 5) gender dysphoria, and 6) inordinate ethnic and moral relativism. This syndrome implies severe character pathology and is distinct from adolescent identity crisis. The conceptualization has a significant bearing on the differential diagnosis and psychotherapy of personality disorders.