What is the main characteristic of dissociative disorders?

The main characteristic of dissociative disorders is the experience of a separation of identity, reality, or memories, often as a psychological response to trauma or stress. This dissociation involves a disruption in the normal integration of consciousness, memory, identity, or perception. It can manifest in various ways, such as depersonalization (feeling detached from oneself), derealization (feeling that the world is unreal), or dissociative amnesia (inability to recall important personal information).

In the context of trauma, individuals may use dissociation as a coping mechanism, allowing them to distance themselves from the emotional pain associated with their experiences. This characteristic distinguishes dissociative disorders from other mental health conditions that may involve changes in mood, affect, or motor functions. The focus on identity and memory separation reflects the core of dissociative experiences, setting it apart from other psychological disorders.