Journal of trauma & dissociation : the official journal of the International Society for the Study of Dissociation (ISSD)
January 1, 2014
Yochai Ataria
19 citations
Dissociation during trauma is a strong predictor of posttraumatic stress disorder, yet its fundamental aspects remain poorly understood. This article argues that applying the phenomenological structure of time and the phenomenological description of the self—including the minimal self, sense of ownership, sense of agency, and sense of self—can improve understanding of dissociation during trauma, both at its occurrence and in any ensuing symptoms. The phenomenological approach, which focuses on the bodily level of experience, particularly the body as experienced from within, enables deeper insight into the traumatic experience. This improved understanding may facilitate the development of better treatments.
Journal of trauma & dissociation : the official journal of the International Society for the Study of Dissociation (ISSD)
November 21, 2025
John A O'Neil
14 citations
Dissociative multiplicity—the presence of more than one center of consciousness or 'I,' as seen in Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and subthreshold DID (OSDD-1)—poses a fundamental challenge for classical psychoanalysis. Classic constructs such as splitting, repression, triadic models (oedipal, topographic, structural, Fairbairnian, Kohutian), object relations, and attachment theory cannot fully account for this phenomenon, though they remain partially applicable. The paper explains why these frameworks fall short and reflects on what is needed to reintegrate dissociation into mainstream psychoanalytic theory and practice.
Journal of trauma & dissociation : the official journal of the International Society for the Study of Dissociation (ISSD)
January 1, 2013
Elizabeth Hegeman
10 citations
The paper suggests historical links between cultural domination and dissociative spiritual responses to oppression, using three examples: the Zar cult of Southern Sudan, Puerto Rican syndrome (ataque), and the Balinese trance dance. It argues that spirit possession functions as an escape from unbearable reality, a way to express forbidden needs and desires, a means of adopting an identity beyond traditional authorities, and a reenactment of traumatic experience.
Journal of trauma & dissociation : the official journal of the International Society for the Study of Dissociation (ISSD)
January 1, 2017
Colin Ross
3 citations
Individuals being treated for dissociative identity disorder sometimes report childhood involvement in organized, multi-perpetrator ritual abuse and describe being "programmed" by the perpetrators, feeling this programming is beyond their control. The author presents treatment strategies based on therapeutic neutrality, applicable regardless of assumptions about memory accuracy. In such cases, "cult alters" express allegiance to perpetrators and their ideology, while the host personality often feels a helpless victim, creating a victim-rescuer-perpetrator triangle. Perpetrator introjects can be engaged in therapy and become allies in recovery and integration.
Journal of trauma & dissociation : the official journal of the International Society for the Study of Dissociation (ISSD)
January 1, 2025
Ivano Caselli, Marta Ielmini, Giulia Gastaldello et al.
2 citations
Pathological dissociation involves disruptions in consciousness, memory, identity, perception, and affect, often linked to trauma. This systematic review of 123 studies identifies increased prefrontal cortex activation and reduced hippocampal volume as potential biomarkers for pathological dissociation. Altered connectivity in the limbic system, frequently tied to childhood trauma, further supports the neurobiological basis of dissociative symptoms. Biochemical and genetic findings are promising but inconsistent, requiring more validation. Identifying reliable biomarkers could improve diagnostic accuracy, guide personalized treatments, and monitor therapy responses.