Kernberg’s structural model

Kernberg’s structural model describes how a person’s personality is organized into different internal parts that influence their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It emphasizes three main "structures": the ego (sense of self and reality), the defense mechanisms (ways we protect ourselves from pain), and the object relations (how we relate to others). Healthy functioning involves a balanced integration of these parts, allowing us to manage emotions and relationships effectively. In contrast, disturbances or conflicts among these structures can lead to personality issues or mental health problems, often seen in conditions like borderline or narcissistic personality disorders.