A cognitive model of peritraumatic dissociation.
OBJECTIVE
Interacting cognitive subsystems (ICS; Barnard & Teasdale, 1991) is presented as a framework for understanding the impact of perceptual problems in peritraumatic dissociation.


METHODS
This paper analyses two peritraumatic dissociation symptoms, attention being drawn to stimuli and the experience of time slowing. ICS is described. Information processes in peritraumatic dissociation are analysed.


RESULTS
Peritraumatic dissociative symptoms are conceptualized as problems with early processing of sensory information that result from problems of sensory feature binding.


CONCLUSIONS
These problems are discussed in relation to experiences of fragmented memories in trauma within the context of ICS. A role for mindful attention in psychological therapy is raised.
Wing Lun
Lenora M
LM
Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. lenora@unswalumni.com
D001288:Attention / Q000502:physiology; D003071:Cognition / Q000502:physiology; D004213:Dissociative Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology*; D005133:Eye Movements / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008568:Memory / Q000502:physiology; D008960:Models, Psychological; D010465:Perception / Q000502:physiology; D010468:Perceptual Disorders / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology; D010469:Perceptual Distortion; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000379:methods; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology*; D013998:Time Perception / Q000502:physiology