The aim of the study “Beyond the Reflection - The Mirror Interview” is to explore the “Mirror Interview” (MI) developed by P. Kernberg and B. Buhl-Nielsen.
The MI is an interview for diagnosing personality that includes body representation. Based on the mirror paradigm and the assumption that essential aspects of personality development are carried out in early moments of interpersonal mirroring processes, the MI is conducted in front of a full-length mirror. The aim is to gain access to unconscious, repressed material (self- and object representations) through the mirroring processes activated in the process and the confrontation with the body self. It measures verbal and non-verbal processes in dealing with one's own mirror image, such as the ability to maintain eye contact with oneself, to feel fully represented in one's own body, self-acceptance vs. self-criticism, affective reactions such as shame and countertransference, and the degree of coherence of the self-narrative. The total value of body self-integration should allow relevant conclusions to be drawn about the degree of integration of the personality. The inclusion of the body self is an innovative addition in the field of personality diagnostics.
In the context of this research project, questions regarding the theoretical assumptions of the mirror paradigm and the psychometric components of the interview will be examined in order to scientifically substantiate the method and to review and revise the interview guide and the evaluation manual. In addition, initial correlations with clinically relevant constructs (personality organization, DSM-5 personality functioning and maladaptive personality traits, narcissism, attachment, parental caregiving, defense) will be examined. In addition, drama-based video material in English and German will be created for scientific presentations, training and teaching purposes. The continuation of the project with the revised manual will then also be used in clinical samples (e.g. for measuring progress). These are already being planned with international partners.
A pilot study in August 2023 yielded initial indications of significant correlations between the MI scales and the integration of identity, specific parental behaviors, and relationship skills disorders. The community sample of n=35 collected there is to be expanded to N=152 as part of this research project. Participation includes conducting the MI and the STIPO interview, as well as answering 6 questionnaires on attachment, defense and personality. Participants will be reimbursed with 3 VPN hours or 30€ expense allowance.
Original language: German
Presentations at the symposium “Uses of the Mirror Interview in the Assessment of Attachment Experiences on Personality Organization” (B. Buhl-Nielsen, M. Steele) at the International Attachment Conference, Rouen, France: