The Fog Is Lifting; Veils of Mist Come and Go

Abstract

The aim of this study was to illuminate experiences of the process of recovering from pathological dissociation. The study used data from interviews with six female participants diagnosed with pathological dissociative disturbances. All the women had a history of having been sexually abused. Data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Two main themes emerged in the analysis: social and relational change and self in movement. The themes mirror the interplay in the recovery process that took place both intrapsychically and with regard to the relational interplay between self and other significant people. The recovery process was dependent on an incipient sense of security in relational interaction, and this process was hindered by insecurity and ambivalence in relationships. Each patient’s relationship with her therapist also played a crucial role for the participants.