The unification of consciousness: Approaches to the healing of dissociation.
Journal of religion and health September 1, 1995 DOI: 10.1007/bf02248761 via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThe Christian mystical tradition and the psychological treatment of dissociative identity disorder both describe a process of unifying consciousness. Comparing the experience of the self in contemplative practice and in DID patients reveals points of continuity. Differentiating first-order dissociation (separation from a divine being or source) from second-order dissociation (separation from parts of one's own self and experiences) can preserve insights from both spiritual and psychological perspectives.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Differentiating first-order dissociation from second-order dissociation can preserve insights from both Christian mystical and psychological perspectives on unifying consciousness. |
Abstract
This study examines the process of unifying consciousness as described in the Christian mystical tradition and in the psychological treatment of dissociative identity disorder (DID). A comparison of the experience of the self in the contemplative and the DID patient is also undertaken to emphasize points of continuity. The present analysis proposes that differentiating first-order dissociation (separation from a divine being or source) from second-order dissociation (separation from parts of one's own self and experiences) can preserve the insights gathered from both spiritual and psychological perspectives.