Dissociation, Dissociative Disorders, And Ptsd

Dissociative experiences are common among children and adults, ranging from normative to pathological frequency and severity. This chapter details important aspects of dissociation following traumatic experiences, including empirical support for the trauma model of dissociation, psychobiological processes involved in dissociative experiences, and the presence of both dissociative symptomatology and dissociative disorders in patients diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, the authors discuss the complexities of conducting trauma treatment with dissociative individuals, including differential diagnosis and treatment approaches grounded in current treatment outcome research. Finally, key points to further inform readers about assessment and treatment of dissociative disorders are included at the conclusion of the chapter.