Just my thoughts on dealing with people that have struggles accepting their blind spots, the unknowns, and their hidden agendas.
I have common problem for some patients seeking consult wanting to "figure themselves out" because of their mental health problems. I do the routine diagnostic interview and get an impression on the first take. Some patient's don't really mind any labels while others just want some affirmation even if it's not exactly what they want to hear. It's a common thing but there will be one of those types that become pushy and insists on having problems with the label.
From a textbook standpoint, all the checklists ticks off that they definitely have Bipolar Mood Disorders but refuse to acknowledge this part about themselves. It runs in the family and they saw how someone in their family suffers from it and therefore try their best not to be tagged with it despite the obvious symptoms they've been experiencing or are trying to be selectively aware of.
I'm not going to make this about symptoms or diagnostics. I'm more focusing on the reaction of people. The trouble I encountered here is how poor their insight is despite seeking multiple consults between other practitioners telling them what they already needed to hear but refused to acknowledge and felt misheard.
Below is the diagram for the Johari's Window. One way to examine how we see ourselves and how others see us which enhances our perception of self image.
You can refer to the source linked above to have a better grasp on the subject since the site can do a much better explanation on it that I could come up with while writing this post.
When I hear someone say "I know myself better than anyone" and I just think of this diagram. they're at the open area and hidden area. But even strangers can make good assessment of people by focusing on the blind spots. It's called a blind spot for a reason. And you reduce that corner by getting to meet more people talking about what you don't notice about yourself.
Going back to the case above.
My impressions for this person:
Areas where I give myself doubt:
It's draining to deal with these types. I'm not treating a disorder, I'm treating a person so my focus is now is trying to get them to see their blind spots.
Thanks for your time.