Assessing for Dissociation in Maltreated Children: The Theoretical and Clinical Relevance of Narrative Story Stems

Dissociation reflects disruptions in information and sensory-processing which range from normative to pathological. These disruptions are different in children than in adults due to developmental differences which leave them more vulnerable to the effects of maltreatment. Chronic maltreatment and disorganized attachment in children, illustrated by atypical behavioural strategies toward the caregiver, predict the development of pathological dissociation in children which interferes with functioning and development. Therefore, assessing for these symptoms is crucial; however, the few instruments specifically targeting them present limitations. The authors suggest narrative story stems, playful tasks that activate the child’s attachment representations, to assess for dissociation in maltreated children. A theoretical and clinical rationale is provided given the source of maltreatment is often the caregiver. © 2016, Springer International Publishing.