The multiplicity of the mind

The Internal Family Systems (IFS) model developed by Richard Schwartz introduces an innovative and compelling concept: the multiplicity of the human mind.

Origins #

The journey to IFS began in the early 1980s when Schwartz, then a family therapist, observed that even when clients were encouraged to speak as individuals, they often described their feelings and thoughts in terms of internal conflict: ‘Part of me wants to…’ or ‘Part of me feels…’.

The language of multiplicity is embedded in everyday speech and reflects a universal psychological experience. These expressions reveal our intuitive understanding that we experience life in many internal aspects, not just a singular, cohesive self.

Driven by these observations, Schwartz began listening more deeply to his clients as they described these parts of themselves. Over time, he noticed that these parts fit into a pattern like the dynamics seen in (external) family systems. Schwartz’s radical insight was to apply systems thinking to this internal world, thus developing the foundational framework for IFS.

Core assumptions #

At the core of IFS is the assumption that multiplicity is a feature of the human mind, not a disorder. This contrasts with traditional Western medical views, which often link the presence of distinct internal voices or identities to mental health issues like schizophrenia. However, IFS posits that everyone has multiple parts, and mental health problems arise not from the existence of these parts, but from their extreme roles.

In a healthy system, these parts harmoniously coexist under the leadership of the Self. When parts are forced out of their natural roles by life experiences, particularly trauma, they may adopt extreme roles. For instance, some parts become ‘managers’ to maintain control and protect the individual, while others may become ‘firefighters’ to handle acute emotional crises. ‘Exiles’ carry painful emotions and memories that the other parts try to keep at bay. Healing involves helping these parts return to their natural ’non-extreme’ roles, enabling the Self to resume its natural leadership position.

Embracing all parts #

It’s crucial to understand that there are no ‘bad’ parts. Each part, regardless of its role, is inherently valuable and possesses positive intent, even if its actions seem problematic or destructive.

This perspective fosters a compassionate approach to therapy, encouraging individuals to approach each part with curiosity and empathy rather than judgment. By recognising that every part has a beneficial purpose, typically to protect or to manage pain, we can begin to negotiate with our parts, inviting them to relax their extreme roles and integrate more effectively into the overall system.