Dissociation in adults with a diagnosis of substance abuse

Dissociation is a defence mechanism whereby individuals under stress separate affect and/or behaviour from the normal flow of consciousness. It is common in people who have experienced trauma. A Dissociative Experience Scale was used to study 51 subjects who were members of inpatient or outpatient substance abuse programmes. Thirty per cent of the group scored 15 or higher, suggesting that dissociative events are common in this population. Nurses need to understand the phenomenon of dissociation and the relationship between trauma, dissociation and substance abuse. This will enhance their assessment of patients and increase their knowledge base regarding appropriate treatment.