PH
After a serious relationship ends, people don't only have to adjust to losing their partner.
Research has found that breakups can reduce self-concept clarity—how clearly someone understands who they are.
This makes sense when hobbies, friendships, routines, goals, and identities became intertwined with the relationship.
Researchers have also linked reduced self-concept clarity after a breakup with greater emotional distress.
Sometimes “I don't know who I am anymore” isn't merely a dramatic E×ρréššion.
Separating “me” from what used to be “us” can become part of breakup recovery.
© Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin