Review article
All the faces of dissociation - evolutionary and developmental need, symptom, defense mechanism, or disorder?
Barbara Ivković Cikač
; HART
Abstract
The concept of dissociation was first mentioned by P. Janet in the 19th century,
stimulating numerous discussions and research in the field of dissociative
disorders that continue today. Dissociation is a complex and often misunderstood
phenomenon that has significant implications for mental health and well-being.
The definition of dissociation is not simple, and its occurrence and causes vary
from psychological defense mechanisms to pathology. Dissociation is therefore
important to consider from different perspectives, and the literature describes
it as a psychological defense mechanism, symptom, disorder and potentially
as an evolutionary and developmental need. Contemporary research seeks to
shed light on the factors that influence the relationship between dissociation
and trauma, as well as to investigate the origin of dissociation.
In addition to the well-known and strong correlation with trauma, part of the
research focuses on factors of attachment, ability to regulate, and early trauma as
significant influences in the development of dissociative symptoms and disorders.
Genetic predisposition and individual differences in coping mechanisms
may also contribute to the development of these disorders. Neurobiological
perspectives suggest that dissociation may be related to changes in brain
function and structure. This psychological phenomenon is characterized by a
sense of disconnection between thought, identity, consciousness, and memory.
In this context, art therapy has proven to be a suitable modality that facilitates
self-exploration and integration of fragmented aspects of the personality,
thereby encouraging the healing and recovery process. The article provides an
overview of the definitions of dissociation and dissociative disorders, considers
the etiology of these disorders, especially the complex relationship between trauma and dissociation, and focuses on specific techniques and applications
of art therapy in working with people suffering from dissociative disorders
through a review of relevant research.
Keywords
dissociation; dissociative disorders; trauma; art therapy; disorganized attachment
Hrčak ID:
327417
URI
Publication date:
30.12.2024.
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