Psychological Dissection of Female Patients Having Dissociative Symptoms: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Dissociative symptoms, including dissociative identity disorder (DID), depersonalization, and dissociative amnesia, are often linked with trauma and stress, and have a profound impact on the mental health of patients. This cross-sectional study aims to explore the psychological characteristics of female patients exhibiting dissociative symptoms, focusing on underlying trauma, emotional regulation, and symptom severity. A sample of 150 female patients, aged 18 to 45, from a psychiatric hospital were assessed using the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) and the Trauma Symptom Checklist. The results show a high correlation between dissociative symptoms and a history of emotional or physical trauma. Emotional regulation difficulties and childhood abuse were the most prominent factors contributing to dissociation. Additionally, patients with dissociative symptoms were more likely to exhibit higher levels of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study concludes that dissociative symptoms in females are intricately linked to past trauma and emotional dysregulation. Early identification and therapeutic intervention targeting trauma and emotional regulation can help alleviate the severity of dissociative symptoms.

Keywords: Dissociative symptoms, trauma, emotional regulation, female patients, dissociative identity disorder, PTSD, psychological study.