Trauma Through the Lens of Role Misaddressing Error and Role Diffusion Trauma: A Preregistration of Theoretical Constructs, Experimental Design, and Clinical Intervention

This preregistration introduces two novel trauma mechanisms—Role Misaddressing Error (RME) and Role Diffusion Trauma (RDT)—within the framework of the Psychology of Inner Worlds. These mechanisms describe how trauma may arise not only from the content of social feedback, but from the mismatch between active sub-personalities and the roles to which emotional content is addressed. The preregistration outlines theoretical definitions, neurocognitive hypotheses, and a full empirical plan including diagnostic interviews (RME-S10), ERP-based role-priming tasks, and a longitudinal intervention using role-labeling therapy. Expected outcomes include measurable ERP markers (ERN, LPP), DMN desynchronization patterns, and improved self-role coherence post-intervention. The goal is to establish sub-personality autonomy as a foundational unit of the dynamic self and to offer precise diagnostic and therapeutic tools for role-based trauma.