Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

dissociation

noun

/dɪsəˈsoʊsiˌeɪʃən/

Definition

The process of disconnecting or separating something from something else.

Examples

During moments of high stress, she experienced dissociation from her surroundings.
His dissociation from reality made it difficult for him to interact with others.
Therapists often help patients understand their dissociation in the context of their trauma.

Meaning

In psychology, dissociation refers to a mental process where a person becomes disconnected from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or sense of identity. This can occur as a response to trauma or stress.