NCJ Number
205428
Journal
Child Maltreatment Volume: 9 Issue: 2 Dated: May 2004 Pages: 146-153
Date Published
May 2004
Length
8 pages
Annotation
After exploring the symptoms of dissociate disorders and the ways that maladaptive dissociation can develop in maltreated children, this article reviews strategies for distinguishing dissociative disorders from other disorders in children, along with treatment strategies.
Abstract
The central feature of dissociative disorders is "a disruption in the usually integrated functions of consciousness, memory, identity, or perception of the environment" (American Psychiatric Association, 1994, p 477). The characteristics of dissociation in children do not typically fall into diagnostic categories as easily as do those of adults. Determining the type of dissociation used by a child and the situations in which it occurs may thus be more useful. Descriptions of children with dissociation problems from several clinical samples show several common characteristics. Principal characteristics include problems with memory and changes in a sense of self, as indicated by dramatic changes in personal style, skills, and preferences. In discussing the development of dissociation, this article focuses on the emergence of normative dissociation during repeated abuse and the development of maladaptive dissociation. Also discussed are comorbidity and differential diagnosis, obstacles to recognizing dissociation problems, and behaviors associated with dissociation in children. The latter discussion lists behaviors that involve withdrawal, problems in interpersonal relationships, major fluctuations in behaviors, and amnesia. The article concludes with suggestions for individual therapeutic interventions with children who have dissociative symptoms or disorders, as well as intervention with parents and others involved in the child's life. A case study is included. 23 references