The Potentiality of Bodies

Abstract

Theorizing embodiment has proved a major stumbling block in social psychology in recent times. Attempts have been made, such as the “discursive body” or the “regulated body,” but less attention has been placed upon incorporating a sense of movement and change within theories of the body. This paper seeks to conceptualize a potentialized body, utilizing Deleuzian theory, along with Massumi’s focus on potentiality. This is empirically driven through focus on the various ways in which mental health service users manage the somatic challenges presented by adhering to medication regimens, which involves a detailed empirical and conceptual engagement with accounts of medication taking. This culminates in the presentation of a move towards innovating social psychological engagement with embodiment theory and reveals greater insight into the difficulties presented in everyday life for service users drawn into complex medication regimen practices.