Author:
Baker Dawn,Hunter Elaine,Lawrence Emma,Medford Nicholas,Patel Maxine,Senior Carl,Sierra Mauricio,Lambert Michelle V.,Phillips Mary L.,David Anthony S.
Abstract
BackgroundDepersonalisation disorder is a poorly understood and underresearched syndrome.AimsTo carry out a large and comprehensive clinical and psychopathological survey of a series of patients who made contact with a research clinic.MethodA total of 204 consecutive eligible referrals were included: 124 had a full psychiatric examination using items of the Present State Examination to define depersonalisation/derealisation and 80 had either a telephone interview (n=22) or filled out a number of self-report questionnaires. Cases assessed were diagnosed according to DSM–IV criteria.ResultsThe mean age of onset was 22.8 years; early onset was associated with greater severity There was a slight male preponderance. The disorder tended to be chronic and persistent. Seventy-one per cent met DSM–IV criteria for primary depersonalisation disorder. Depersonalisation symptom scores correlated with both anxiety and depression and a past history of these disorders was commonly reported. ‘Dissociative amnesia’ was not prominent.ConclusionsDepersonalisation disorder is a recognisable clinical entity but appears to have significant comorbidity with anxiety and depression. Research into its aetiology and treatment is warranted.
Publisher
Royal College of Psychiatrists
Subject
Psychiatry and Mental health
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