DISSOCIATIVE DISORDERS IN PRISONERS OF WAR: LEVELS AND METHODS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL INTERVENTIONS

Abstract

Dissociative disorders pose a serious problem for captives, as they appear in response to severe traumatic events, which can accompany combat and captivity conditions. Prolonged stress, physical and psychological violence, isolation and threat to life significantly increase the risk of development dissociative symptoms. Studies of levels and methods of psychological intervention is important for development of effective rehabilitation and support programs for prisoners of war, which can contribute to improvement of their mental health and life quality. Aim of the article – study the manifestations of dissociative disorders in prisoners of war and determine the effective levels and methods of psychological intervention for their treatment and rehabilitation. Study confirms, that dissociative disorders are widespread consequence of prolonged imprisonment and severe traumatic events, related to combat. Conducted studies showed high level of dissociative disorders in prisoners of war, such as amnesia, depersonalization and split consciousness. Also, prisoners of war, who survived more severe forms of traumatic experience (physical or psychological violence), show higher level of dissociation and post-traumatical symptoms. Evaluation of psychological invervention effectiveness shows , that complex methods, which include cognitive-behavioral therapy, stabilization techniques and support on different stages of rehabilitation, are the most effective for reducing od symptoms of dissociation and improvement of psychoemotional state of prisoners of war. Complex approach to psychological inverventions on different levels (individual, group), significantly reduces manifestations of dissociation and improves adaptation of prisoners of war after release. Implementation of such treatment methods are inseparable part of rehabilitation programs for this group of victims.