Somatoform Dissociation: Phenomena, Measurement, and Theoretical Issues

Ellert R. S. Nijenhuis

Praise for Somatoform Dissociation:

'Ellert Nijenhuis has done an exceptional job presenting us with a new and bold scientific approach to the study of dissociative phenomena. He demonstrates how not only the psychological, but also the somatic components of dissociation have a profound role in the long-term adaptation to traumatic experience. This study forms a cornerstone for a renewed understanding of dissociation. The care and rigor of this work will inevitably lead to critical advances in the treatment of dissociative patients.'

-Bessel A. van der Kolk, Professor of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine and Medical Director of the Trauma Center, Boston

'The startling theme of the book is that our customary definition of dissociation using only psychological terms blinds us to the fact that many patients have chronic physical complaints that are actually dissociative in nature. . . . . Dr. Nijenhuis contends that the numbing and freezing components of somatoform dissociation are related to universal evolutionary survival strategies of animals. Human dissociation, therefore, may be a direct result of an instinctual survival response. This is his 'defensive states' model that he contrasts with Pierre Janet's dissociation theory. . . as well as Frank Putnam's . . . behavioral states model of dissociative disorders. [Nijenhuis] believes that somatoform dissociation is a unique construct that can be measured and he offers two scales to do just that. This is an impressive contribution to the field. The book is well organized, well written, and uses up-to-date references to the scientific literature. . . . I predict a new look at the endorphin neurotransmitters on the biochemical level and a fresh understanding of dissociation at the behavioral level. I believe that this book will initiate great change.'

—Journal of Trauma and Dissociation

"[An] intellectually challenging book. It is also an important one."

—MHT Digest

"A very important book in the field of trauma and dissociation. . . . Puts the study of dissociative disorders very firmly into the arena of evidence-based, scientific and mainstream consideration."
—The Psychologist

Overview

The first comprehensive theory of somatoform dissociation.

Expanding the definition of dissociation in psychiatry, Nijenhuis presents a summary of the somatoform components of dissociation-how sensory and motor functions are affected by dissociative disorders. Founded in the current view of mind-body integration, this book is essential reading for all mental health professionals engaged in the diagnosis, treatment, and study of dissociative disorders, PTSD, and other trauma-related psychiatric disorders.

About the Author

Ellert R. S. Nijenhuis, PH.D., is a psychologist, psychotherapist, and researcher with more than 15 years experience treating and studying dissociative disorder patients. He has published articles, book chapters, and a monograph on the topic. In 1998 he was awarded the Morton Prince Award for Scientific Achievement by the International Society for Dissociation.

ISBN: 0-393-70460-2
Spring 2004
Paperback; 246 pages