NCJ Number
165089
Journal
Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma Issue: 1 Dated: (1997) Pages: 305-327
Date Published
1997
Length
23 pages
Annotation
Over the past decade, several clinicians and researchers have suggested that dissociative disorders, including dissociative identity disorder (DID), may be more prevalent than previously hypothesized.
Abstract
The rediscovery of DID is due in part to the recognition that early childhood trauma and the propensity to dissociate are etiological factors in the development of DID. The author attempts to raise clinical consciousness about DID and discusses the definition and etiology of dissociative disorders, their assessment, and an approach to treating the sexual abuse survivor who has DID. The treatment program integrates some of the techniques recommended by others but is unique in its step-by- step flexible organization and in its multifaceted format. The author's experience to date suggests that the sooner a dissociative disorder can be identified in the adult sexual abuse survivor client, the more rapid the therapeutic progress. Diagnostic criteria for and the etiology of DID are described, as well as procedures for assessing dissociative disorders. The treatment process is examined in terms of anxiety management training, the identification of alternate personalities or states, initial intervention, the development of co- consciousness, working through trauma, resolution and integration, and the development of post-resolution coping skills. 32 references