Living Beyond Oneself:
The Reality of Dissociation Disorder
Rebecca Lynn England
General Psychology; Valley College
Abstract
An exploration of Dissociative Disorder including an overview of debates, disorder description, causes, and treatment. Hundreds of studies have been performed concerning this subject. There are countless theories and allegations concerning multiple personalities, even dating back to the days of the witch hunts.
Initial symptoms generally begin in childhood. By adulthood, a person has usually forgotten the actual abuse or trauma that caused the psychological disorder, but are left with a myriad of manifestations of abnormal behaviors throughout life. Memories that begin to reemerge later in life are caused by what is called triggers. In depth testing must be undergone to determine if a person actually has this condition. Once diagnosed, treatment is extensive, lasting over many years. Realistically, the person may never completely function normally.
Keywords: Dissociative Disorder, multiple personalities, alter personalities, psychological conditions, treatment, abuse, trauma, switching, post-traumatic stress disorder
Living Beyond Oneself:
The Reality of Dissociation Disorder

The Creation of an Alter Person

Dissociative Disorder is part of a series of conditions called Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, “a condition of reoccurring persistent mental and emotional stress as a result of injury or severe psychological shock.” (NLM) Originally known as “multiple personality disorder,” it is a multifaceted psychological condition in which a person disconnects, or dissociates from themselves in a particular situation resulting in a mental state similar to daydreaming. This is done in order to cope with severe and ongoing trauma or abuse. It can develop into a more severe condition referred to as split personalities. This may entail