Definition of dissociation
A variable and normal mental state of absence useful to help the person compartmentalise, detach or anaesthetise.
American Psychiatric Association, DSM-IV-TR, 2000.
What is dissociation?
Dissociation is a psychological defence mechanism characterised by a disconnection between thoughts, identity, consciousness, and memory. It is often a response to overwhelming stress, trauma, or a coping mechanism in the face of emotional distress. During dissociation, individuals may feel detached from themselves or their surroundings, as if they are observing their own experiences from a distance.
There are different types and levels of dissociation, ranging from mild and temporary experiences, such as daydreaming or ‘spacing out’, to more severe forms like dissociative disorders. Dissociative disorders involve persistent and disruptive dissociation that can significantly impact a person’s daily functioning and sense of identity.
The list below gives more detailed information about how dissociation may be experienced.
- Out of body experiences: Seeing yourself from outside of yourself, for example from above.
- Derealisation: Perceiving the world around you as strange, unreal or distorted.
- Flashbacks: Re-experiencing a previous event as if it is now.
- Amnesia: Not remembering things you know you have experienced. This may be over the long or short term, and can affect large or small amounts of time.
- Depersonalisation: Feeling as if you or part of your body is not real or distorted.
- Identity disturbance: Having a self of many parts or voices.
- Re-victimisation: Lifestyle choices that make it difficult to protect yourself from more harm.
- Changeable emotions: Feeling something and not knowing why.