(Ridgeview Institute and the International Society for the Study of Dissociation, 1996-06) Beere, Don; Pica, Michael; Maurer, Lara
This study found no relationship between dissociativity and social desirability. In contrast to the assumptions of social enactment theory, the findings revealed that dissociativity, as measured by the DES, is independent of the need to respond in a culturally appropriate and acceptable manner, as measured by the Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale. In addition, a measure of dissociative pathology (DES-T) showed no relationship to social desirability which suggests that reports of dissociation-related symptomatology to clinicians can be valid and not simply the result of attempts to win approval or gain attention. Both researchers and clinicians, therefore, should feel confident about using the DES as a measure of dissociation.
