Presenter: Dr. Eve Carlson
In the early 1980s, systematic measures of dissociation were developed and empirical research on dissociation began. The first measures assessed a wide range of experiences considered “dissociative”, including relatively rare indicators of severe dissociative disorders as well as common, benign experiences. Dissociation measures made possible important findings about the relationship of dissociative symptoms to dissociative disorders, traumatic stress, disordered attachment relationships, and disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder. New dissociation measures focus more on specific domains of dissociation and the most prevalent and clinically-significant symptoms. Brief measures can be used to assess dissociation at the outset of treatment for all clients and to monitor dissociative symptoms during treatment in those with problematic dissociation. More detailed measures can be used to ascertain the extent and nature of dissociative experiences in those with clinically significant dissociation.