Dissociation is a disconnection between thoughts, emotions, memories, actions or sense of identity. It is a common reaction to traumatic experiences as a way to detach from the pain of the trauma. Children are especially vulnerable to dissociation as their sense of self is still forming. Recognising dissociation in children and addressing it appropriately can help them healthily process trauma.

What is Dissociation?

Dissociation is best understood as a disconnection or detachment between aspects of experience or identity that are usually integrated. A child may experience a disconnect between their thoughts, memories, emotions, perceptions, consciousness, identity or behaviour. Dissociation exists on a spectrum from mild detachment from the present moment to more severe detachment from physical and emotional experiences. It can be a helpful coping mechanism when faced with trauma but becomes problematic if it is persistent.

What Causes Dissociation in Children?

There are several potential causes of dissociation in children:

  • Ongoing abuse or trauma such as physical, emotional or sexual abuse. This overwhelms the child's coping capacity. Children in foster care with agencies like ISP Fostering who have experienced abuse or neglect may be especially prone to dissociation as a way to escape their circumstances psychologically. 
  • Neglect, including lack of consistent caregivers or affection. This can disrupt healthy attachment and sense of self.
  • Acute trauma from a distressing event like a car accident, natural disaster or violence.
  • Attachment disruptions from being separated from primary caregivers.
  • Neurological factors like seizure disorders or innate dissociative ability.

Dissociation allows the child to detach from intolerable circumstances. However, chronic dissociation can be maladaptive if it persists when no longer needed.

Recognising Dissociation in Children

Signs that a child may be dissociating include:

  • Appearing disconnected or detached from their surroundings and relationships
  • Having lapses in memory or concentration
  • Daydreaming excessively
  • Having dramatic shifts in mood or behaviour
  • Seeming like different "selves" at different times
  • Difficulty integrating thoughts, feelings and behaviours
  • Feelings of depersonalisation or derealisation

Addressing Dissociation in Children

If a child shows signs of dissociation, do not judge or criticise them. Dissociation is an unconscious coping strategy. The goal should be to help them feel safe enough to be fully present. Strategies include:

  • Providing a sense of safety, consistency and unconditional care
  • Encouraging expression of thoughts and feelings through play, art or talking
  • Teaching grounding techniques like focused breathing or sensory engagement
  • Building a trusting relationship so the child feels secure
  • Working with a trauma-informed therapist if dissociation persists
  • Avoiding re-traumatising or overwhelming the child
  • Helping the child develop a positive sense of self and identity

With time, care and professional support, children can learn to process trauma and difficult emotions without needing to dissociate. 

Dissociation allows children to detach from pain but prevents long-term healing. Recognising dissociation and responding with compassion rather than judgment is important. Building a secure, trusting relationship helps children healthily reconnect with themselves. With trauma-informed support, children can learn to be fully present and process difficulties adaptively. Addressing dissociation skilfully gives children the best chance at emotional recovery and growth.