Final answer:
In Janet Helms' model, the disintegration phase is characterized by an individual experiencing guilt and confusion about their racial identity due to awareness of racial inequalities and privileges.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the model of White American identity development described by Janet Helms, the disintegration phase entails an individual experiencing guilt and confusion surrounding their racial identity. This phase is characterized by the realization of inequalities and unfair advantages associated with being White in a racially stratified society. Individuals in the disintegration stage grapple with the discomfort stemming from their greater awareness of racism and privilege, which often leads to emotional conflicts and uncertainty about how to reconcile their personal identities with the realities of societal inequities.