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The dissociative disorders. Rarely considered and underdiagnosed
1Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA.
The Psychiatric Clinics of North America
|October 17, 1998
Summary
Dissociative disorders are common, affecting 5-10% of psychiatric patients, yet often underdiagnosed. This review covers their symptoms and diagnostic tools to improve clinical recognition.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Dissociative disorders are frequently underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed.
- Clinicians often mistakenly believe these disorders are rare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology and clinical symptomatology of dissociative disorders.
- To discuss screening and diagnostic instruments for these conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of dissociative disorders.
- Discussion of epidemiological data and clinical presentations.
- Overview of diagnostic tools: DES, SCID-D, MMPI.
Main Results:
- Dissociative disorders may affect 5% to 10% of psychiatric populations.
- Common types include dissociative amnesia, fugue, depersonalization, and dissociative identity disorder.
Conclusions:
- Increased awareness and use of diagnostic tools are crucial for accurate identification.
- Addressing the underdiagnosis of dissociative disorders is essential for effective patient care.