dpdr

DSM-IV characterizes dissociation as disruption of the usually integrated functions of consciousness, memory, identity, or perception of the environment. ICD-10 acknowledges that it may also involve the sensory and motor systems, leading to symptoms, which are subsumed under the term of conversion: ‘‘partial or complete loss of the normal integration of immediate sensations, and control of bodily movements’’.1 In general, dissociation can be understood in three distinct ways: (1) as a lack of integration of mental modules or systems, (2) as an altered state of consciousness, and (3) as defense mechanism. All of these are partial or even complete failures to deliberately control processes and take actions that can normally be influenced by an act of volition, for example, the ability to bring accessible information into conscious awareness or move voluntary muscles, we have found that in stages of shutdown as well as during later reappearance of dissociative states, reality construction becomes more difficult. These typical behavioral features include that threatened individuals cannot hear, see, or perceive well anymore. They move less – due to excessive muscle tension – until motility stops. Furthermore, they have difficulties understanding language and are unable to produce speech.

 

Maggie Schauer/Thomas Elbert