Question

The prevalence of most psychological disorders has increased since the 1980 s. However, as discussed in this section, scientific publications regarding dissociative amnesia peaked in the mid- 1990 s but then declined steeply through 2003 . In addition, no fictional or nonfictional description of individuals showing dissociative amnesia following a trauma exists prior to \(1800 .\) How would you explain this phenomenon?

Short answer

The decline in publications on dissociative amnesia since the 1990s could be due to shifts in research focus, changes in societal awareness, or advancements in understanding other, related disorders. The absence of early depictions is likely due to an overall lack of understanding and recognition of such psychological conditions before 1800.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Nature of Dissociative Amnesia

Dissociative amnesia is a type of amnesia that causes a person to forget personal information and experiences. This condition, unlike other forms of amnesia, is not caused by physical injury to the brain but by the result of a severe psychological stressor. Understanding this is key to elucidating the decline in published material about the disorder.

Changes in Research Interest and Psychological Awareness

It is important to realize that the interest in psychological disorders generally and dissociative amnesia, specifically, is influenced by societal factors and scientific progress. The peak and subsequent decline in the 1990s could be attributed to a variety of factors, such as changes in diagnostic criteria, advancement in neuroscience, and shifts in societal interest and awareness about mental health.

Lack of Early Depictions of Dissociative Amnesia

The absence of descriptions of dissociative amnesia prior to 1800 could be attributed to a lack of understanding of psychological disorders in that era. Then, mental health was not as comprehensively understood as it is today. It's also possible that the condition was misclassified under other conditions or not recorded at all due to lack of diagnostic criteria.

Key concepts

Psychological Disorders Prevalence

The occurrence of psychological disorders has been a subject of much debate and study, particularly in their noticeable increase since the 1980s. Dissociative amnesia, as an example, reflects a complex interplay between psychological understanding and societal recognition of mental health conditions.

Historical data implies that prior to modern psychology, many disorders were either underreported or misdiagnosed. This underreporting was due to a multitude of reasons, including a lack of awareness, societal stigma, and rudimentary classification systems. As research evolved, there was a period where disorders like dissociative amnesia gained prominence in scientific literature, which likely corresponds with a broader acknowledgment of stress-related illnesses.

Factors Contributing to Prevalence Rates

However, prevalence rates can be influenced by several factors, including better diagnostic tools, increased public awareness, and improved access to mental health services. Thus, when exploring prevalence rates, it's critical to consider these variables, which may boost detected cases rather than signify a genuine increase in disorders.

• Improvement in Diagnostic Criteria
• Greater Awareness and Mental Health Literacy
• Access to Healthcare Services

Evolution of Psychological Research

The evolution of psychological research has been pivotal in shaping our current understanding of disorders like dissociative amnesia. Initially, psychological conditions were often seen through a lens of superstition or religious explanation.

Advancements in the field have emerged alongside other scientific revolutions, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Influential figures like Sigmund Freud began to explore the mind's role in distress and disorder, leading to more nuanced and complex interpretations of mental health issues.

Milestone Developments in Research

From Freud's psychoanalytic theory to the development of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), psychological research has transformed significantly. This has led to a more informed perspective on disorders, including their identification, classification, and management.

• From Superstition to Science: A Shift in Understanding
• Psychoanalysis and the Rise of Talk Therapies
• Neuroscience Integration and Holistic Approaches

The decline in dissociative amnesia publications post-1990s likely correlates with shifts in research focus towards biological underpinnings of psychology and a refinement in classification systems.

Mental Health Awareness

Mental health awareness is a relatively recent yet critically important development in society's approach to psychological wellbeing. Increasing awareness has contributed to destigmatizing mental health conditions, encouraging more people to seek help, and fostering a culture where discussing psychological distress is not shamed but supported.

The Impact of Mental Health Campaigns

Campaigns targeting mental health literacy help in disseminating information about disorders such as dissociative amnesia. These movements work towards eliminating myths and providing accurate information, which is essential for early detection and treatment.

• Destigmatization of Mental Illnesses
• Information Dissemination and Support Networks
• Improved Public Understanding and Empathy

The initial surge in publications and interest in dissociative amnesia could correspond with the rise of advocacy and awareness during the 1990s. However, as society becomes increasingly knowledgeable, we may see a natural ebb in publishing as the focus shifts to emerging topics within the realm of mental health.