Shame as Affect Regulation in Dissociative Identity Disorder.

Abstract

The abusive and/or neglectful relational mis-attunement disrupts ongoing developmental growth and binds attachments to abusive caregivers. This shame-based relational frame then becomes a template for subsequent relationships and self-definitions. Shame and dissociation combine to provide a paradoxical and powerful self-protective form of self-regulation via a dis-enlivened existence that enables people with DID to live with otherwise potentially dysregulating affects and relationships. Shame-activated defenses and extreme inhibition of feeling couple with dissociative compartmentalization to limit affective awareness and enable the wounded individual to hide from the life around them and within them.