Dissociative Disorders

Question 1

Dissociative Disorders

Answer 1

Defined by loss of memory (amnesia), identity or sense of self

Dissociative Amnesia
Dissociative figue
Dissociative identity disorder
Depersonalization Disorder

Question 2

Dissociative Amnesia

Answer 2

Amnesia is the only symptom present (have large periods of time that are forgotten)

At least one instance of inability to recall important personal information usually involving a traumatic or stressful event (rape etc)

Most common dissociative disorder (more common in women than in men)

Increased incidence with comorbid major depression or anxiety disorders.

Tx is psychotherapy.

Abreaction: stron rxn patients get when retrieving traumatic memories

Question 3

Dissociative Fugue

Answer 3

sudden unexpected travel away from home, accompanied by the inability to recall ones identity or ones past.

Patients may assume an entirely new identity

Unaware of amnesia and new identity and never recall the figure.

Predisposing: Heavy use of alcohol, major depression, history of head trauma or epilepsy

Question 4

Dissociative Identity Disorder

Answer 4

Pts are said to have 2 or more distinct personalities that alternately control their behaviors and thoughts.

Inability to recall personal info of other personality when one is dominant

90% women.

Tx: Hypnosis, drug assisted interviewing

Question 5

Depersonalization Disorder

Answer 5

Persistent or recurrent feelings of detachment from ones self or environment or social situation

Reality testing is intact during episode