What is true about episodes of dissociative disorders?
A They usually begin and end suddenly
B They usually progress slowly and end suddenly
C They usually progress quickly and end slowly
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is A. They usually begin and end suddenly.
Dissociative disorders, such as dissociative identity disorder, dissociative amnesia, and depersonalization-derealization disorder, often manifest unexpectedly. Episodes can appear to begin without clear warning signs and may seem to abruptly end. This sudden onset and resolution are a key feature of these disorders.
In the case of dissociative identity disorder, for example, a person may experience sudden shifts in their sense of identity, with different personalities emerging abruptly. Similarly, someone with dissociative amnesia might forget important personal information or memories in a sudden, often triggering event, like a stressful experience. These episodes can happen without warning and may not follow a gradual or predictable pattern.
There are a few theories behind why dissociative episodes begin and end suddenly. One possible explanation is that these disorders are often the result of severe trauma, such as abuse or stressful experiences. In response to overwhelming stress, the brain may resort to dissociation as a coping mechanism. This allows the person to separate themselves from traumatic memories or experiences. The “onset” can be triggered by external factors like reminders of trauma, emotional stress, or other psychological triggers. The “end” might occur when the individual comes to terms with the trauma or achieves some form of resolution, often during therapy.
It’s also worth noting that while dissociative episodes can end suddenly, they may not necessarily do so without leaving lasting effects. Many people with dissociative disorders experience recurrent episodes, and their experiences can have long-term psychological and emotional impacts. Treatment, such as therapy, may help manage or reduce the frequency of these episodes over time, but the resolution can still be sudden when it does occur.