In this hour we will define and explain the dissociative process, and distinguish it from other confusing or perplexing childhood behaviors. We will explore the emotional, cognitive and physical symptoms that parents, teachers, and mental health professionals are likely to see in kids and adolescents who use this coping strategy. Our guest will explain why kids dissociate, helping listeners understand the connection between dissociation and a variety of traumatic experiences. We will also look at the impact that dissociation has on kids’ functioning in school, at home, and with peers. We will identify the manifestations of dissociation across different developmental stages. Listeners will learn about the ways in which adult responses can either mitigate or further add to a child’s dissociative state. We will explore the fundamental goals of treatment when working with dissociation and share positive examples of kids who have been able to live more fully integrated and healed lives.
Special Guest
Dr. Joyanna Silberg Dr. Silberg is the coordinator of Trauma Disorder Services for Children and Adolescents at Sheppard Pratt Health System in Baltimore Maryland and the Executive Vice-President of the Leadership Council on Child Abuse & Interpersonal Violence. She treats children and adolescents suffering from dissociative symptoms and disorders, and her forensic practice specializes in child sexual abuse. She has served as an expert witness in 27 states. She is past-president of the International Society for the Study of Trauma & Dissociation and contributing editor to their journal of Trauma and Dissociation. She has won several awards for her research and clinical work. Silberg is the editor of The Dissociative Child and co-editor of Misinformation Concerning Child Sexual Abuse and Adult Survivors. She has presented nationally and internationally on child abuse, psychotherapy, and protecting abused children in family court. Her newest book The Child Survivor was recently released. Read more about Dr. Silberg here. >
