Structural Dissociation and Dissociative Identity Disorder
A Possible Explanation for Dissociative Identity Disorder
As you may have noticed, there are dozens of theories out there about dissociation and dissociative identity disorder. Obviously, since dissociation is part of DID, it is necessary to cover these theories the best we can.
For this article, we shall investigate structural dissociation theory and all its ramifications. We will not decide or discuss whether this theory answers all our questions, nor will we delve too much into the controversy surrounding it.
What is Dissociation?
Dissociation is a natural defense against traumatic or tedious situations, and as such, all humans dissociate. Some common forms of dissociation are road hypnosis and being so enthralled with something that you lose all awareness of time.
Only when dissociation becomes a problem one needs to consider seeking help. Although all people with dissociative identity disorder experience dissociation, many of us do not understand what the definition of it is.
The Oxford Dictionary defines dissociation as follows:
“separation of some aspects of mental functioning from conscious awareness, leading to a degree of mental dysfunction or…