Dissociation : Vol. 9, No. 1, p. 048-059 : Switching: Part I an investigation using experimental phenomenology
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Date
1996-03
Authors
Beere, Don
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Ridgeview Institute and the International Society for the Study of Dissociation
Abstract
Seven descriptions of externally precipitated switching from one personality to another were analyzed using experimental phenomenology. The results, cross-checked with nine other descriptions, indicate that switching occurs when reality events are proceeding toward a possible outcome of significance to a non-executive alter. As the outcome becomes more realizable, the non-executive alter becomes more energized and might influence the executive alter covertly to increase the likelihood of the outcome. When the outcome might really occur, intensity exceeds a threshold for the current executive alter and the non-executive alter takes control of the body. The process appears to be a loss of control for the prior alter and an assumption of control by the second. The results suggest that identity is a more significant factor in switching than state or emotion. Switching seems not solely a defense nor a mechanism to cope with intolerably negative states.
Description
p. 048-059