Let the musings continue! Could you do an analysis on how you think the theory of structural dissociation relates to Will (and maybe Hannibal if you think that applies). What are your thoughts on the theory in general? And if this is too specific don't feel any pressure to go into it. I hope you keep getting as much enjoyment out of these discussions as I am!

Of course, let’s muse! Regarding structural dissociation theory, I find it an intriguing lens through which to view Will’s psychological struggles. This model certainly holds value when analyzing Will’s complexities. As a psych researcher though, I avoid rigidly adhering to any single theoretical framework, as I naturally tend to create theories of my own hahaha! However, I do find the structural dissociation model helpful when symptoms appear confusing or when criteria for other diagnoses seem inadequate or unclear.

That said, I do not believe the theory of structural dissociation applies to Hannibal in the same way. Hannibal represents a very different psychological profile, one that is not as fragmented in terms of dissociative identities. He operates more from a place of deliberate control and manipulation, making him less compatible with theories centered around dissociation, although I do have theories for possible fragmentations when it comes to his psyche.

I think Will’s psychological profile is complex, and while some potential diagnoses can be ruled out, others remain plausible. For example, his amnesia, which occurred specifically during encephalitis, suggests that memory loss was tied to a physical condition, which could rule out some psychogenic causes, such as dissociative disorders. I believe he has identity issues and we could also muse about that in another post.

Also, his dissociative trance during crime scenes was not a product of an external force or mental breakdown, but rather a self-induced state suggested by the imagery of the pendulum in his mind, which hints at a possible knowledge of self-hypnosis. Despite being highly stressful, these episodes were consciously driven, further distancing Will from diagnoses typically associated with involuntary dissociation.

Given the continuity of his hallucinations, especially after his recovery from encephalitis, I stand by my “fictional diagnosis” of schizophrenic disorders. It could be argued that Will exhibits traits of schizoaffective disorder, particularly due to his episodes of depression, suicidal ideation, and even suicidal action (notably in the finale). His hallucinations, which continue after his encephalitis-induced amnesia has cleared, are another key criteria of schizophrenia. These symptoms could suggest either the bipolar type of schizoaffective disorder, given his manic episode when he sailed to Europe, or the depressive type, given the more consistent depressive states he displays throughout the series.

Final diagnosis: a sexy little freak.