Surviving Trauma: The Theory of Structural Dissociation and Defense Mechanisms

In this presentation, Janina Fisher, Ph.D., explores the case of “D” who, despite adulthood successes, endured the long-term impacts of multiple childhood traumas. The focus is on the theory of structural dissociation: the development of distinct “parts” that assist in coping with the aftermath of trauma, but which can cause their own problems.

Here are the most important highlights:

* The theory of structural dissociation dictates that trauma causes the physical division of the brain to also become psychological.
* Chronic trauma leads to the development of various defensive subparts, each driven by distinct responses.
* Each defensive part adopts a unique strategy, ranging from avoidance and submission to fight-or-flight behaviors.

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