Self-states, attachment and dissociation: relationships and measurement

Abstract

Within theoretical approaches established links have been found between individual’s self-states, dissociative experiences, and attachment style. However, stigmatisation and the lack of awareness around dissociative experiences is mirrored in the limited evidence base surrounding the measurement of dissociation, self-states and the part attachment plays.
A systematic review was completed which aimed to understand the relational processes between attachment and dissociation in clinical samples. A total of 16 papers were reviewed and there was evidence that anxious, avoidant, and fearful attachment were directly linked with dissociative experiences. There were also several indirect associations within different clinical presentations between attachment and dissociation, such as trauma, psychosis, and substance misuse. The benefit of measuring dissociation and attachment style within clinical intervention to inform treatment planning was highlighted.
As a result of this, the empirical paper focuses on assessing the psychometric properties of a new tool to measure dissociation at the personality level, between modes or self-states, rooted in cognitive behavioural theory (Dissociation – Integration of Self-States Scale; D-ISS). An exploratory factor analysis was conducted on Sample 1 (344 young adults), and a confirmatory factor analysis and psychometric tests were conducted on Sample 2 (383 adults). The five-factor model showed an overall good fit from the CFA. Additionally, the D-ISS showed good internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Low to null correlations were found with divergent subscales, and low to moderate correlations with the DES-II.
These papers have contributed to the dissociation literature base by the consideration of relational factors between attachment and dissociation, as well as providing a new valid and reliable measure for clinical use of dissociation between modes/self-states.

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ORCID for Clarissa Anne Lord: orcid.org/0000-0002-9413-3466

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