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The capacity to dissociate: Exploring the adaptive potential of dissociative experiences

Kaufman, Julia Simone
http://orcid.org/0000-0002-1357-3700
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1407000342

Abstract Details

2014, Master of Arts, Miami University, Psychology.
Dissociation is typically conceptualized as a response to trauma or maladaptive coping strategy; however, research has indicated that dissociation may have adaptive potential when an individual can flexibly deploy dissociative responses. The present study explored the adaptive advantages of dissociative experiences among 162 undergraduate students with histories of interpersonal violence. Three moderators (ego-resiliency, psychological acceptance, and impulse control difficulties) of the relation between dissociation and both posttraumatic growth (PTG) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) were explored. Results revealed that dissociative experiences were associated with increases in PTSS, but were not associated with PTG. Ego-resiliency, acceptance, and impulse control difficulties did not moderate the relation between dissociation and outcome to allow dissociation to be adaptive. Results highlighted the benefits of acceptance and the ability to control behaviors when distressed and flexibly adapt based on context. Clinical implications including the potential benefit of mindfulness- and acceptance-based behavioral treatment approaches are discussed.
Margaret O'Dougherty Wright, PhD (Committee Chair)
Terri Messman-Moore, PhD (Committee Member)
April Smith, PhD (Committee Member)
57 p.
Psychology
dissociation; trauma; posttraumatic stress disorder; posttraumatic growth

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Kaufman, J. S. (2014). The capacity to dissociate: Exploring the adaptive potential of dissociative experiences [Master's thesis, Miami University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1407000342

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Kaufman, Julia. The capacity to dissociate: Exploring the adaptive potential of dissociative experiences. 2014. Miami University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1407000342.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Kaufman, Julia. "The capacity to dissociate: Exploring the adaptive potential of dissociative experiences." Master's thesis, Miami University, 2014. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1407000342

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

miami1407000342
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© 2014, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by Miami University and OhioLINK.