Essentia Readings Dissociation and complexity: A psychiatrist’s perspective
Jul 24, 2022
Dive into a fascinating exploration of dissociation and its everyday implications. The discussion reveals how common dissociation is, extending beyond disorders like DID to a spectrum of experiences. From understanding the mind as a complex, non-linear system to exploring the nuances of partial dissociation and its links to creativity, the conversation highlights how modern life and education can stifle our vital energies. Personal anecdotes and metaphoric language provide rich insights into the adaptability of the mind and the importance of studying these intricate processes.
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Mind As A Dynamic, Fractal Process
- The mind is a non-linear dynamical process made of many semi-autonomous subsystems that can synchronize or dissociate.
- Dissociation is an inherent generative force in such systems and thus inevitable in the psyche.
Dissociation Lies On A Continuum
- Dissociation exists on a continuum from near-complete (e.g., DID, psychosis) to partial (e.g., PTSD, conversion disorder).
- Brain entropy rises in acute dissociative states then self-organizes, showing a biodynamical correlate of dissociation.
Psychogenic Aphasia Case
- Dr. Perch recounts treating a patient with psychogenic aphasia, illustrating conversion disorder as dissociative.
- The disorder produced loss of speech without organic brain changes, highlighting functional dissociation.
