I agree. Conceputally, I understand the idea of having "parts." However, except in cases of dissociation, I simply don't "buy it" so to speak. I know this is not going to be a popular opinion on PC but, here goes... I've brought up with topic with T, and actually feels the same way. She has had clients who have DID and other, milder forms of dissociation and she that, with them, it was important to work with the "parts" with the ultimate goal of integration, so that only one "self" remains. However, in people without dissociation, she feels this idea of working with the "parts" is unhelpful because it actually enables and perpetuates childlike behavior in adults.

In my view, when someone's "self" is already singular-- and they do not see themselves as having "parts"-- introducing this approach and giving them parts can actually cause regression. Being able to say "my part wants this" as opposed to "I want this" can serve as a way of transferring responsibility away from one's self and onto someone else (a "part"). It also gives one more license to indulge one's cravings and other, maladaptive behaviors becuase they can be blamed on a younger "part" (oh, my part couldn't help it! she's only 2! she wants it so badly!)-- when, in fact, you are an adult who CAN help it. In order to stop behaviors that are no longer serving you, you need to accept your desires/needs as your own, take responsibility for them, and find age-appropriate ways of addressing them. Simply acting out like a child (and saying it is the "part") does not seem to foster change/growth.