Dissociative Disorders Overview

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following accurately describes dissociative fugue?

It is characterized by a gradual decline in memory function over time.

It includes extensive memory loss, potentially resulting in the adoption of a new identity. (correct)

It involves brief gaps in memory triggered by stress.

It results from organic brain damage or injuries.

How does dissociative amnesia differ from dementia?

Dissociative amnesia is always triggered by an emotional event.

Dementia typically results in memory loss without any identifiable triggers. (correct)

Dementia does not affect old memories but impacts the ability to learn new information.

Dissociative amnesia involves knowledge of past events.

Which symptom is NOT typically associated with dementia?

Sudden forgetfulness linked to a traumatic event. (correct)

Slowly fading memories over time.

Impairment in learning new information.

Inability to recall past events consistently.

Before diagnosing dissociative amnesia or fugue, which factor must be considered?

The potential for similar symptoms stemming from substance use. Signup and view all the answers

What common cause of memory loss must be ruled out when diagnosing dissociative disorders?

Traumatic brain injury. Signup and view all the answers

In dissociative disorders, which aspect of memory is primarily affected?

The retrieval of past memories. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the effects of stress on memory is accurate?

Stress can trigger specific memory gaps in dissociative amnesia. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key defining feature of dementia compared to dissociative disorders?

Memory impairment that progresses slowly over time. Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason for the controversy surrounding certain diagnoses?

The perception that individuals may be faking their symptoms Signup and view all the answers

What concern might arise when a person suddenly moves to a new place without informing family?

Family members may suspect they just wanted to leave their previous life Signup and view all the answers

In the discussion about dissociative disorders, what is implied about patients who seek care?

They tend to be more realistic about their condition Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested regarding the term used for various dissociative disorders?

It may encompass individuals with differing experiences Signup and view all the answers

Why might someone believe a person who has disappeared is simply seeking a new life?

Family dynamics appear to be strained Signup and view all the answers

What complicates the understanding of dissociative identity disorder according to the conversation?

Lack of substantial research in this field Signup and view all the answers

What assumption can be made about individuals who do not seek treatment after suddenly relocating?

Their actions may indicate a desire to escape their previous life Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of diagnostic criteria may lead to some patients being misclassified?

Diverse symptoms that overlap with other disorders Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Dissociative Amnesia

Involves sudden memory gaps, potentially triggered by stressful events.
May involve brief periods of forgetting past events.

Dissociative Fugue

Involves sudden extensive memory loss, more extensive than amnesia.
Can involve moving to a new location with a different identity and personality.
Often involves the individual not being aware of their new identity and personality.

Causes of Memory Loss

Before diagnosing dissociative amnesia or fugue, other causes of memory loss should be ruled out.
These include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Substance use
- Medication side effects

### Dementia

A gradual decline in cognitive function with no specific trigger.
Not linked to stressful events.
Involves difficulty remembering old information and learning new information.

### Differentiation

Dissociative amnesia and fugue involve difficulty remembering old information but not learning new information.
Dementia involves difficulty with both remembering old information and learning new information.

### Controversy

Dissociative fugue can be a controversial diagnosis.
Some question whether individuals faking it to avoid a situation or start a new life.
This is difficult to evaluate, as those who may be faking it would likely not seek treatment.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of dissociative fugue is formed based on individuals who willingly seek treatment for their condition.
This diagnosis is controversial due to its umbrella term application, potentially including individuals who do not want to be diagnosed with it.

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)

Considered the most controversial diagnosis in the field of psychology.
Limited research exists on the topic.

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Description

Explore the intricacies of dissociative amnesia and fugue, including their causes and differentiation from dementia. This quiz will help you understand memory loss and its various forms, providing insights into stressful events' impacts on memory. Test your knowledge on this fascinating subject!