Dissociative Disorders
Dissociative Disorders
(Dissociative Disorders)
For some time, criminal defendants and their attorneys have attempted to introduce mental health issues into the court setting. Indeed, the legal system has recognized that certain behaviors, prompted by mental health diagnoses, need to be taken into account when dealing with a defendant. Arguably, no diagnosis given in this area is more controversial than dissociative disorders. Many defendants, with little success, have attempted to use dissociative symptoms in hopes of mitigating their responsibility of alleged criminal wrongdoing. Therefore, it is especially important to know this area of disorders and how they are diagnosed.
To prepare:
- Review this week’s Learning Resources.
- Focus on Chapter 8 of your text, and on the dissociative disorder classifications in the DSM-5.
- Consider the challenges dissociative disorders might present to a forensic psychology professional in a legal setting.
With these thoughts in mind:
Post by Day 4 a comparison (similarities and differences) of dissociative identity disorder and one other dissociative disorder. Highlight the difference between the disorders in a way that allows you to accurately distinguish between the two when making a diagnosis. Then explain challenges dissociative disorders might present to forensic psychology professionals when introduced in a legal setting.
Dissociative disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by disruptions in consciousness, identity, memory, and perception. Individuals with these disorders may experience a disconnection or detachment from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or even their sense of identity. The most well-known dissociative disorder is Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder, where a person exhibits two or more distinct identities or personality states.
Other types of dissociative disorders include Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder, where individuals feel detached from their own body or reality, and Dissociative Amnesia, involving memory gaps for significant personal information. These conditions often result from severe trauma, such as abuse or extreme stress, serving as a coping mechanism for the mind to protect itself from overwhelming experiences.
Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, focusing on integrating fragmented aspects of one’s identity and addressing the underlying trauma. A supportive therapeutic relationship and a safe environment play crucial roles in helping individuals with dissociative disorders regain a sense of continuity and self-awareness.
Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources.
