Factors that predict scores on the dissociative experiences scale

Abstract

Bernstein and Putnam (1986) recently developed the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES), a reliable and valid measure of dissociative experiences. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of the DES to other measures of psychopathology and cognitive functioning. Seventy-six female and 43 male university students were administered the DES, the Hopkins Symptom Checklist (HSCL-90), the Maudsley Obsessional-Compulsive Inventory (MOCI), the Tellegen Absorption Scale (TAS), and the Barnes-Vulcano Rationality Test (BVRT). A standard multiple regression was computed that used the DES as the criterion variable and the HSCL-90, MOCI, TAS, and BVRT as predictor variables. The results showed that 61% of the variance for DES scores could be predicted by three subscales of the HSCL-90 (Phobic Anxiety, Anger-Hostility, Somatization) and the TAS and BVRT. The importance of the relationship between the predictor variables and the DES for understanding dissociative disorders, especially multiple personality disorder, was discussed.