Dissociative Experience
A dissociative experience involves feeling detached from one's thoughts, body, or surroundings.
Overview
Such experiences can occur during trauma, meditation, or extreme stress. They range from mild to severe.
Key Insight
Dissociative experiences reflect a disruption in the usual integration of consciousness.
Scientific Status
Recognised in psychology and psychiatry; studied as both normal and clinical phenomena.
How Researchers Study It
Clinical assessment, self-report scales, and neuroimaging in dissociative disorders.
Quick Facts
- Field
- psychology, psychiatry
- Related Concepts
- dissociation, depersonalisation
- Typical Context
- trauma and altered states
Related Terms
FAQ
Are dissociative experiences always pathological?
No. Mild dissociation can occur in meditation, absorption, or stress without disorder.