Definition of Dissociation

The defining characteristic of all dissociative disorders is "disruption in the usually integrated functions of consciousness, memory, identity, or perception of the environment."* This means that there will be problems in one or more of the functions mentioned.

	Consciousness: There may be diminished awareness of one's surroundings or experience or "blind spots" with regard to some events.
	Memory: Certain events or periods may be unavailable. This can vary widely, from loss of details to loss of decades.
	Identity: One's identity may be temporarily lost while another identity [or part] either takes over or is assumed.
	Perception: Events, places, or people may be misinterpreted if they are filtered through distorted consciousness, identity, or in the light of repressed memories. [See Resources for more information on repressed or recovered memories.]

* American Psychiatric Association, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th edition) (American Psychiatric Press, Washington, DC, 1994).

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Jonathan P. Levine, CSW

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	Dissociation Defined