“I don't really exist here”: A reflexive thematic analysis of dissociative symptoms described by adolescents and their parents and clinicians

Dissociative symptoms are associated with a range of negative outcomes, yet little is understood about how adolescents experience dissociation in their daily lives. This study aimed to describe adolescents’ dissociative symptoms from the perspective of adolescents, their parents, and their treating clinicians.

Citation:
Milkins B, Ohan JL, Boutrus M, Pace G, Milroy H. “I don't really exist here”: A reflexive thematic analysis of dissociative symptoms described by adolescents and their parents and clinicians. European Journal of Trauma and Dissociation. 2025;9(4).

Keywords:
Adolescent; Dissociative Disorders; Dissociation; Trauma; Qualitative Research

Abstract:
Dissociative symptoms are associated with a range of negative outcomes, yet little is understood about how adolescents experience dissociation in their daily lives. This study aimed to describe adolescents’ dissociative symptoms from the perspective of adolescents, their parents, and their treating clinicians.