I. Definition of Dissociation:

1. I. Definition of Dissociation: • Dissociation refers to the compartmentalization of an experience. Elements of the trauma are not integrated into a unitary whole or an integrated sense of self.

2. II. Primary Dissociation • Examples include intrusive memories, nightmares, flashbacks • Memory Fragments

3. III. Secondary Dissociation • Observing the traumatic event “as a spectator” • Also called “peritraumatic dissociation”

4. IV. Tertiary Dissociation • Development of distinct identities that contain the traumatic experience

5. V. Dissociation & Vulnerability to Developing PTSD

6. VI. Vulnerability Factors for Dissociation • a) Prior use of Dissociation as a Coping Strategy  • b) Repeated and Chronic types of traumatic events • c) Traumatic events experienced repeatedly in childhood

7. VII. Vulnerability Factors for Dissociation (continued) • d) High levels of physiological arousal during the traumatic event; e.g. intense pain, panic attacks. • e) Greater subjective perceived threat during the trauma

8. VIII. Complex PTSD . Vulnerability Factors for Developing more complex reactions to a traumatic experience Ø Traumatic experiences occurring early in life Ø Repeated traumatic experiences Ø Traumatic experiences perpetrated by a care giver

9. Complex PTSD (continued) • Typical Abuse experiencing leading to complex PTSD Ø Incest experiences Ø  Chronic and severe experiences of physical abuse

10. IX. Core Mechanisms Disruption in self-concept • Self concept is defined as an individual’s understanding of his/her attributes

11. IX. Core Mechanisms (continued) Disruption in identity • Identity refers to an individual’s phenomenological representation of self. • Essentially answers the question, Who am I?

12. IX. Core Mechanisms (continued) Taken together self-development includes and intrapersonal component and an interpersonal component Ø These components are the very things which make up personality