Today I (R) have been thinking about plurality pretty heavily. I do a lot of self reflection and introspection, so this isn't out of the norm for me. However, right as I was finishing some paperwork while thinking about my parts, I got hit with a random question from G.

"Is that why we can't look at ourselves in the mirror?" - referring to being an internal family system (IFS).

For years, I have been unable to look at my reflection and really process that the person looking back at me is me. I focus on the eyes in the reflection, and my brain kind of auto tunes out the rest of me. I have to specifically focus on a part of my reflection (like when styling hair or applying makeup) or or all of me (like to evaluate an outfit looking ok on me) to register my image. I also avoid taking pictures of myself because of this. I'm able to say it's me when I see myself, but I think that's more of a trained response.

I've mentioned this several times over the years to my therapist. When she asks why I struggle with this, I honestly draw a blank. Logically I can come up with reasons (low self esteem, self confidence issues, depression, or gender identity issues) but nothing's ever felt "right" as an explanation.

I'd like to hear others perspectives on this.

Edit: Found a typo! .-.