ABSTRACT
Dissociation is a phenomenon commonly defined as a temporary alteration m the normally integrative functions of consciousness, identity , or memory. Di ssoc iation involves a splitting off of thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that are ordinarily closely connected. Thus, thoughts can be dissociated from behaviors or from feelings. Dissociative phenomena are not necessarily associated with psychopathology. These phenomena may occur spontaneously, can be sought after, or can be induced for therapeutic purposes. It is believed that the ability to experience such is related to the same phenomenon underlying hypnotizability .
