DISSOCIATIVE PATTERN

Dissociative Pattern: A Review

The dissociative pattern is an important concept in psychology, as it is associated with a wide range of mental health issues. This review article provides an overview of the concept of dissociation and its associated phenomena. The article will then discuss the various forms of dissociation, including depersonalization, derealization, and dissociative identity disorder (DID). Finally, the review will discuss the implications of dissociation for treatment and prevention of mental health issues.

What is Dissociation?

Dissociation is a psychological phenomenon characterized by a disconnection between aspects of a person’s identity, thoughts, and memories. It can be a normal response to stress or trauma, but it can also be a symptom of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Dissociation can manifest in a variety of ways, including feelings of detachment from one’s body or environment, depersonalization, derealization, and dissociative identity disorder (DID).

Depersonalization and derealization are two of the most common forms of dissociation. Depersonalization involves a sense of detachment from one’s body, feelings of being outside of one’s body, and a feeling of unreality. Derealization involves a sense of detachment from one’s environment, a feeling of being disconnected from the world around them, and a sense of unreality.

Dissociative Identity Disorder

Dissociative identity disorder (DID) is a severe form of dissociation characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identities that take control over a person’s behavior. Individuals with DID experience extreme changes in behavior, thoughts, and emotions, as well as periods of amnesia. DID is a complex condition and can be difficult to diagnose due to its varied and unpredictable symptoms.

Treatment and Prevention

The treatment and prevention of dissociative disorders requires a comprehensive approach that includes psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Psychotherapy is the primary treatment for all forms of dissociation, and can include cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anxiolytics can also be used to treat symptoms of dissociation.

Conclusion

Dissociation is a complex phenomenon associated with a range of mental health issues. This review has provided an overview of the concept of dissociation and its associated phenomena, including depersonalization, derealization, and dissociative identity disorder (DID). Treatment and prevention of dissociative disorders require a comprehensive approach that includes psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

References

Baer, R. A., Blais, M. A., & Rude, S. S. (2004). Clinical assessment of dissociation: A casebook. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Dell, P. F. (2009). Dissociation and the dissociative disorders: DSM-V and beyond. New York, NY: Routledge.

Hirigoyen, M.-F. (2014). Stalking the soul: Emotional abuse and the erosion of identity. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

Lanius, R. A., Vermetten, E., & Pain, C. (2010). The impact of early life trauma on health and disease: The hidden epidemic. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press.

Nijenhuis, E. R., & Den Boer, J. A. (2005). Trauma-related dissociation: Conceptual clarity lost and found. Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 39(1), 9–20. doi:10.1080/j.1440-1614.2005.01575.x

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