Dissociative disorders usually develop as a way to cope with
trauma. The disorders most often form in children subjected to
chronic physical, sexual or emotional abuse or, less frequently,
a home environment that is otherwise frightening or highly
unpredictable.  Personal identity is still forming during
childhood, so a child is more able than is an adult to step
outside of himself or herself and observe trauma as though it's
happening to a different person. A child who learns to
dissociate in order to endure an extended period of his or her
youth may use this coping mechanism in response to stressful
situations throughout life.  Though it's rare, adults may
develop dissociative disorders in response to severe trauma.
Mar. 03, 2011