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

Abstract

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.

The Family Meeting

“…First, the therapist strives to create an atmosphere of respectful safety and collaboration by allowing each person to be heard and validated. During this initial meeting, the therapist might emphasize that the family has chosen a new form of relatedness, specifically divorce, rather than subscribe to the popular concept that divorce marks the ending of relationships (Gergen, 1991(Gergen, , 1994Lyle & Gehart-Brooks, 1998). Also, the therapist may need to normalize or reframe the family's experiences if a child appears to be ''scapegoated'' or if a parent is feeling blamed.…”

Fallopian tube anatomy predicts pregnancy and pregnancy outcomes after tubal reversal surgery

“…2 Although sterilization is intended to be permanent, postmodern society has experienced paradigmatic behavioral changes with increased rates of divorce and remarriage. 3 In this context, many sterilized women have expressed regret and wish to have their fertility restored. The frequency rate of the request for tubal sterilization reversal can be as high as 14.3%.…”

Can fallopian tube anatomy predict pregnancy and pregnancy outcomes after tubal reversal surgery?

“…Approximately 9.5 million US women rely on female sterilisation for birth control 2 . While sterilisation is intended to be permanent, postmodern society has experienced paradigmatic behavioural changes with increased rates of divorce and remarriage 3 . In this context, many sterilised women have expressed regret and wish to have their fertility restored.…”