Intrapsychic vs. interpersonal:

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Intrapsychic (self) vs. interpersonal (relationships) is an exploration of what occurs within our mind or personality vs what happens between people. It’s where a process of interaction takes place: while our feelings about a conflict are intrapsychic, the argument itself is interpersonal.

  • Intrapsychic encompasses events, conflicts, motivations, or processes that occur within a person’s mind or psyche. These internal phenomena don’t require other people to exist.
  • Interpersonal encompasses the dynamics, interactions, conflicts, or relationships between two or more individuals—inherently social, involve mutual influence, communication, and shared experiences. Can include a conversation between friends, a disagreement between spouses, social dynamics in the workplace, business negotiations, or desire to gain the group’s social approval. Therapy aims to improve relationships and communication skills with others to alleviate symptoms.

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