Controversy That Surrounds Dissociative Disorders

NRNP 6665 PMHNP Across The Lifespan 1
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NRNP 6665 PMHNP Across The Lifespan 1
Dissociative disorders are a controversial and often misunderstood topic in the mental health field. These disorders are characterized by disruptions in a person's normal sense of identity, memory, and consciousness. The controversy surrounding dissociative disorders is rooted in debates over the validity of the diagnosis, the prevalence of dissociative experiences in the general population, and the causes and treatment of dissociative disorders (Loewenstein, 2022). One source of controversy is the validity of the diagnosis of dissociative disorders. Some researchers and clinicians argue that the diagnostic criteria for dissociative disorders are too broad and can result in overdiagnosis (Loewenstein, 2022). Others argue that the diagnostic criteria are too narrow and fail to capture the full range of dissociative experiences. Additionally, some critics argue that dissociative disorders are iatrogenic, meaning that they are created or exacerbated by the therapist and are not valid mental health conditions.
Another source of controversy is the prevalence of dissociative experiences in the general population. Some researchers argue dissociative experiences are common and may be a normal response to stress or trauma. However, others argue that dissociative experiences are relatively rare and are a sign of a serious mental health condition (Ellickson-Larew, Escarfulleri & Wolf, 2020). Finally, there is controversy surrounding the causes and treatment of dissociative disorders. Some researchers argue that dissociative disorders are caused by severe childhood trauma and that treatment should focus on resolving these traumatic experiences (Ellickson-Larew, Escarfulleri & Wolf, 2020). Others argue that dissociative disorders are a symptom of underlying personality disorders or other mental health conditions and that treatment should focus on addressing these underlying conditions.
My professional belief is that dissociative disorders are valid mental health conditions that can be caused by severe trauma or other underlying mental health conditions. However, I also believe that the diagnostic criteria for dissociative disorders should be applied with caution and that a thorough assessment of a client's symptoms and history is necessary before making a diagnosis.
One study that supports my belief is a meta-analysis by Brand et al. (2016), which found that childhood trauma was a significant predictor of dissociative symptoms in adults. Another study by Lynn et al. (2019) found that dissociative disorders are often comorbid with other mental health conditions. The comorbid condition includes posttraumatic stress disorder and borderline personality disorder, which support the argument that dissociative disorders are a symptom of underlying mental health conditions. A third study by Ellickson-Larew, Escarfulleri & Wolf (2020)found that cognitive-behavioural therapy and medication can effectively treat dissociative disorders. This supports the argument that dissociative disorders are valid mental health conditions that can be treated through evidence-based interventions (Ellickson-Larew, Escarfulleri & Wolf, 2020). Maintaining the therapeutic relationship with a client that may present with a dissocia...