Randall R. Lyle

Postmodernism and Divorce: Reflections on Gergen’s Notion of the Saturated Self in Relation to Modern Divorce

This article explores Gergen’s concept of the saturated self in relation to issues of divorce in contemporary America. The postmodern metaphor of the saturated self, a self comprising multiple, contradictory potentials, can help therapists who work with individuals and couples struggling with the question of divorce. Therapists can use the ideas presented to help depathologize common experiences with divorce and allow clients to explore alternative understandings of themselves and their world in a way that expands possibilities for being in relationship. Specific techniques for incorporating these ideas into clinical practice are presented.