Shame-induced dissociation: An experimental study of experiential avoidance

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Trauma Studies

Background:

• Dissociation is a defense mechanism often linked to trauma.
• Shame is a core emotion in many psychological difficulties.
• Understanding the shame-dissociation link is crucial for effective therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally investigate shame-induced dissociation.
• To examine the association between shame, dissociation, and childhood maltreatment.
• To explore the moderating role of experiential avoidance.

Main Methods:

• A script-driven imagery paradigm was used to evoke shame.
• Participants recalled shame-related and neutral autobiographical memories.
• A mirror-viewing task assessed dissociative responses.

Main Results:

• Shame-related memories significantly increased dissociation compared to neutral memories.
• Experiential avoidance moderated the shame-dissociation relationship.
• Childhood maltreatment severity and mirror-viewing did not predict dissociation.

Conclusions:

• A strong link exists between shame and dissociation.
• Monitoring patient affect during shame-memory recall is vital.
• Preventing reinforcement of dissociative reactions can avoid treatment resistance.